I grew up learning the importance of Christopher Columbus’ discovery and even had a holiday. Now, I hear more about how it wasn’t as important, how he killed natives, and there’s no longer a recognized holiday. How important was Columbus?
Columbus was extremely important. His voyages initiated permanent and sustained contact between the eastern and western hemispheres. His accomplishments brought about enormous political, religious, economic, and social developments in both hemispheres.
Even his detractors recognize his importance; they just don’t want him to be celebrated because they think his impact was largely negative.
.
