Book Review on Christopher Columbus by Zachary Kent Essay Example
Book Review on Christopher Columbus by Zachary Kent Essay Example

Book Review on Christopher Columbus by Zachary Kent Essay Example

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During his voyage to find Asia and his accidental discovery of the Americas, Columbus made a miscalculation in determining the earth's circumference in the late 15th century. It was widely believed that the world was a sphere at that time, but its exact measurement remained uncertain. Columbus underestimated its size by one-fourth (Laufer in Columbus Mythbusters). Numerous myths surrounding Columbus and his explorations have been formed based on limited evidence analyzed by scholars who extensively studied both his professional and personal life.

The text presents new perspectives on Christopher Columbus's life and discoveries, offering ample evidence for recreating the events of his voyage. Columbus's pursuit of reaching Asia led to new opportunities such as approximating the earth's circumference and discovering various islands, including the Bahamas Islands, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Hispaniola (n

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ow Haiti and the Dominican Republic) (Carroll in Honorning Christopher Columbus).

Christopher Columbus was trusted and funded by Queen Isabella for his navigational skills. It is believed that Queen Isabella sold her crown jewels to finance his first voyage, although it was later discovered that it was not necessary. Columbus referred to the people he found on his first island of discovery as "Indians", mistakenly believing that he had reached India.

The American Indians encountered by Christopher Columbus were the Taino people, known for their loving and peaceful nature. However, on another part of the Caribbean Island, there were the Caribs who were cannibals and regularly consumed people. In Mexico, people were more developed and practiced human sacrifice as part of their rituals. Historians, such as Carroll in "Honorning Christopher Columbus," have verified this information. Therefore, it can b

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concluded that the stories resembling Pocahontas, where Indians were portrayed as peaceful and harmless until the arrival of Europeans, are actually myths.

Columbus was fortunate to have met and interacted with the Tiano people, who were known for their loving and peaceful nature. This encounter took place at the right time and in the right place. If Columbus had encountered the Caribs instead during his voyage, it would have had a significant impact on the history and discovery of America. It might have even ended Columbus' journey altogether. Like any other voyage, Columbus had concerns about finding herbs, spices, and gold. Unfortunately, he was disappointed to find that the islands he discovered did not contain much gold, except for Hispaniola which had limited resources. As a result of this disappointment, they decided to return to Spain.

In Spain, they celebrated his success and then sent him on another voyage with a well-equipped ship and crew. Upon returning to America, Columbus faced the Cribs and suffered some casualties. In Hispaniola, he discovered that the crew he had left behind on his previous voyage had become unruly and attacked the Indians. Everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect. Frustrated, ill, and angry, Columbus was unable to control his men, leading him to send thousands of Indians into slavery, forcing them to collect gold.

Columbus blamed them for his misfortune and the lack of gold production, but Queen Isabella put an end to slavery once she found out. However, Columbus was not in control of those under him and was not the oppressor. This book aims to bring together the myths and facts about

Columbus' life and discoveries. By filling in the missing information, we can gain a better understanding of our heritage. The book offers an impartial account of Columbus' achievements and shortcomings.

Despite any failure to lead and control his people, Christopher Columbus should still be honored for his contributions in the navigation system, evangelization of America, discoveries of new land, and unwavering belief that he was chosen by God to carry out his mission. His journey involved challenging and adventurous encounters that ultimately improved the quality of life today. Columbus exemplifies a hero without superhuman abilities - he didn't need to fly or possess a magic wand. Without him, American Indians may have continued to practice cannibalism, consuming human flesh as part of their diet.

This book discusses the potential of human sacrifice as a means of offering to Gods. It is appropriate for younger readers due to its content. Unlike other historical books like Zachary Kent's Christopher Columbus, this book incorporates maps, pictures, and paintings that effectively depict Columbus's life and findings. The vibrant and captivating layout of the book appeals to children aged ten to fourteen. The adventures recounted on every page are certain to ignite children's imaginations.

With this, Columbus lives in every child. History can be exciting and not just a record of past events. It tells the story of humanity, our story. It encompasses fascinating facts and events that have shaped our culture. It highlights the impact of individuals who have influenced the course of our lives. Without their courage to explore and expand our world, we would still be living in primitive conditions.

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