Columbus is regarded as one of the bravest men in the history of the US. His expeditions led to discoveries that have defined history and shaped events that led to our current reality. However, these discoveries might have had served other intentions other than exploration. This perspective might be taken when the events around his exploration are scrutinized.
Columbus read journals on navigation and geography while trying to find a route westward to Asia. This was his biggest motivation at the time and he sought the help of several rulers before the Spanish monarchs would eventually support him ( AP, 2019 ). However, when Columbus was granted the resources to go to these expeditions, he included a list of rewards he wanted in return. While Columbus was not a desperate man who could do anything, he was intensely focused on his ambitions and he had the stubbornness to see them through ( Weatherford, 2019 ). Columbus’ ambitions were centered on creating a name for himself and acquiring the wealth and power that came with it. While some would argue that Columbus was a great mariner, he might not have pursued the experience if it was not ultimately rewarding. In fact, Columbus's most notable sailing skill was his dedication to the course, regardless of the dangers that faced them. This was despite discouragement and persuasion of his crew against the idea.
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Confirmation that Columbus was only concerned about the rewards would come after he succeeded in his first conquests. Columbus went on a looting spree to show his allegiance and he had no problem taking slaves for sale or for free labor ( Weatherford, 2019 ). Columbus was an ambitious man who had dreams of power and found a way he could achieve his dreams and get his name in the history books.
References
AP. (2019). Discovery and Settlement of the New World - AP U.S. History Topic Outlines - Study Notes. Retrieved 11 November 2019, from https://www.apstudynotes.org/us-history/topics/discovery-and-settlement-of-the-new-world/
Weatherford, J. (2019). Examining the Reputation of Columbus. Retrieved 11 November 2019, from https://secure.understandingprejudice.org/nativeiq/weather.htm
