Christopher Columbus and Native Americans

The skills and qualities required of Christopher Columbus in order for him to lead a safe and successful voyage to undiscovered and unexplored lands weighed heavily on him, as he was initially placed in a headship position in the course of the planning of the journey because he originated and entertained the idea of finding a passage to China through unmarked waters. With his assiduousness and persistence, his appeal and intelligence, he was able to convince the King and Queen of Spain to fund his trip. These issues, along with the fact that he had never been a captain on a ship, began the fulfillment of a dream built on nothing. These steps taken were the foundation of what would be a great hero and leader.

One valuable attribute in any man in who is put into a dangerous position of both power and responsibility is the ability to keep a close connection between the leader and the follower, which often determines the success of the leader's mission. In Columbus' case, it was the capability to unite a crew, who, through storms, shipwrecks, disease, dissension, and even death, remained united enough to make several voyages to the "New World." He, and leaders in general, must give an additional effort to motivate to cohorts in order to initiate and expand this alliance that is crucial to the attainment of goals. Another essential quality considered necessary for Columbus to command his expedition was a secure code of moral principles, while also being conscious of various cultural and individual differences. This was apparent in his dealings with the Native Americans that he encountered when arriving in the New World. The most productive way for a leader to deal with an ethical dilemma is to constantly scrutinize their own feelings and thoughts and to exercise negotiation skills with those who abide by differing values. To practice like this demonstrates to others that the leader is open to listening to others and is agreeable to working together despite