ACHIEVEMENTS OR DISASTER?

Are Columbus’s achievements overshadowed by the negative effects of his actions?

It is no doubt that Christopher Columbus is revered by many for his bravery towards exploring the New World. There is an entire day set out devoted to remember the feats that Columbus achieved and how these actions impacted the modern Western World. Is it fair, however, to praise a man’s actions that had such a negative impact on a large group of people? Let’s first examine some of Columbus’s achievements so as to better contextualize the consequences of such achievements. On a grand scheme of things, Columbus can be awarded praise for discovering the New World, spreading Christianity to the West, and connecting the New World with Europe. Although these actions are seen as noteworthy on the surface, if these actions are unpacked, it is clear to see that they can all be refuted in one way or another.