Grossmont College Interpretation of Columbus Historical Legacy Discussion

Question Description

I’m working on a history writing question and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

1) In our first online lecture (“Introduction to U.S. History and Ancient Americas”), we went over some of the chief characteristics and themes that define American history.  What additional features and observations about this historical era/creation would you like to include and why?  In other words for you, what is the Christopher Columbusabout? 
2) Since Christopher Columbus’ monumental 1492 voyage to the Americas, different generations have interpreted in many different ways the Italian explorer’s life, actions and historical legacy.  In the 19th century, Columbus was seen as heroic and visionary, the brave intrepid explorer who crossed the Atlantic and brought the Americas to the attention of the Europeans.  This subsequently brought European colonization to the Americas, eventual new nations, and future globalization bringing an end to the isolated and fragmented pre-modern world.  However, in the late 20th and early 21st century, views of Columbus have dramatically shifted.  Columbus was now portrayed as a villain, a destroyer, even invader, who brought more harm than good to history and our own time.  Destruction of Native American peoples and the inception of African slavery in the Americas are referenced as more destructive consequences of Columbus’ 1492 arrival. 
Therefore based on this present-day view of Columbus, write a post addressing one of these two questions or you may combine both:
a. Since Christopher Columbus typifies such a major historical figure whose actions changed the lives and destinies of hundreds of millions of people, how do we assess, if possible, his accurate historical legacy? Should we judge his actions based on the values and attitudes of his time (15th and 16th centuries)? Or should we assess his actions on how we feel about him today, through the lens of our current values, feelings and attitudes?  This question of course plays into the challenge that historians face when establishing criteria to assess historical figures who lived so long ago.
b. Offer your own interpretation of Columbus’ historical legacy. Is it an overall positive or overall negative legacy? Or do you believe it is a combination of both?  Provide as much support and reasoning with your response as possible.
3)  Historians have offered various reasons explaining why the Spanish conquistadores conquered and overwhelmed the Native American peoples and their land with stunning speed. These reasons include guns, horses, technological superiority, diseases, treachery, greed, religious zeal, nationalist aspirations, etc.  What do you believe is the dominant reason and why?  Or do you believe there is no dominant reason but a multiplicity of factors?  Provide your best assessment with insightful support.  You may expand on what was covered in the online lecture or offer new ideas and interpretations.

Explanation & Answer:
150 words

Tags:
Christopher Columbus

US History and Ancient Americas

Destruction of Native American

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