The Impossible OdySSEY Comes to an End
After Magellan's death and after the commands of Gaspar de Quesada and Gonzálo Gómez de Mendoza, Juan Sebastian Elcano took control of the fleet in September 1521. They loaded their fleet with spices and the two remaining ships headed in opposite directions. As they left the Spice Islands, they were unsure which route was the most efficient for returning them to Spain. Elcano headed east with the Victoria, and sailed south through the Indian Ocean, around Africa, and finally north toward Spain. After one year of traveling, they reached Seville, Spain on September 8, 1522. Only 18 sailors remained. Magellan's leadership is evident through the fact that his crew was committed to finish the voyage that cost many lives. The crew’s dedication, which Magellan forged, helped establish his legacy.
"Monday the 8th of September, we cast anchor near the mole of Seville, and discharged all the artillery..."
The First Voyage Round the World by Magellan by Antonio Pigafetta and Lord Stanley Alderley, 1520