However, the extent and value of these honors was very much in doubt and would require years of litigation.

Ferdinand did not return to court after his father's death. Instead he focused his efforts on the legal battles to enforce the agreements with the crown that granted to Columbus and his descendants extensive rights and privileges in the New World. Diego would be the primary beneficiary, but Fernando felt it was a matter of family honor and loyalty. The first series of lawsuits and petitions (known as the pleitos colombinos)