Christopher Columbus: The Great Navigator

One of the greatest navigators of history was Christopher Columbus. His courage to explore the unknown changed Europe’s view of the world. His discoveries brought Europe and the Americas into contact for the first time. But not everyone agrees Columbus should be remembered as a hero.            

Columbus had his famous expedition to the Atlantic Ocean in 1492. In the fifteenth century, Europeans did not know that the Americas existed. They believed that if they headed west, they would run straight into Asia. Asia was important for Europeans because of the trade for silk, gold, and spices. However, the trip to Asia around Africa was considered too long and dangerous. Columbus wanted to find an easier and quicker route. He thought he’d reach Asia if he headed west.

Columbus convinced King of Spain to pay for an expedition. The king provided him with three ships and money. Three ships arrived in the Caribbean in two months. However, Columbus wrongly thought he was in India. He named the people he met there “Indians.” During this visit, and his next three visits, Columbus and his men brutally mistreated the native people. They stole their land and claimed it for Spain.

Columbus’ place in history will be debated for years to come. Some argue he was a man of bravery and great skill. Although he never reached North America, Columbus was the first to explore parts of Central and South America.

On the other hand, others argue Columbus treated the native people he met cruelly. Despite his remarkable achievements, Columbus didn’t behave like a hero at all, critics argue. The debate about how Columbus should be remembered continues to this day.