Question

(WILL MARK BRAINLIST) How does Columbus’s description of the Caribbean islands reflect Spain’s motivations for sending him there? Suppose Columbus simply had complete freedom to explore the world without specific goals in mind. How would that have affected his observations? How might it have affected world history? Express your opinions and provide specific predictions if possible.​

Answer 1

Upon arriving in the American continent, Columbus was impressed by the size of the place and the number of natives that already occupied these lands. He saw great economic potential in the American territory for the Spanish crown and was quick to write about his discoveries. He claimed that the territory was extensive, with a large number of trees, fruits and animals that could be exploited and generate great wealth for the Spanish crown. In addition, he predicted that this exploitation would have a small economic expense, since it would be possible to conquer and enslave the natives, forcing them to work towards Spanish objectives. He also said that these peoples would be easily converted to Christianity, calling for exploitation to be cursed.

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