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"The history of Alabama begins with the invasion of the country by the Spaniards under DeSoto in 1540 which was forty three years subsequent to the discovery of the northern continent of America by John Cabot. Prior to the visit of DeSoto nothing is known of this region. It had in all probability been the home of the Indians or other savage and inferior race from the remotest period."
(Source: Alabama, Her History, Resources, War Record, and Public Men: From 1540 to 1872, Willis Brewer)