APUSH
Mr. Reinking
Write a 400 - 600 word essay responding to the following question. “In spite of criticisms by some revisionist historians, Christopher Columbus, and other sixteenth century explorers, acted with a daring and courage that brought both wealth and pride to their patron nations. By viewing these men within the context of the historical periods in which they lived, they truly deserved to be called heroes.” To what extent is the above statement true?
FRQ-
In response to the truthfulness of aforementioned statement, many factors must be taken into consideration. For example, if the act that led to the fame and glory of an explorer was actually founded in logic and science or if it was luck that led to their discovery and subsequent recognition. Also, one would have to consider the difference between their motives and the actual findings. For example, if they accomplished what they set out to do or if they ultimately failed in the mission they attempted to accomplish. There are two explorers that this response is based on, Christopher Columbus (Cristobal Colon) and Ferdinand Magellan.
Many attribute Christopher Columbus with daring and ingenuity for having the initiative to sail into the unknown and discover North America. In reality, however, it was a mission doomed to failure. He ignored the (accurate) counsel of the top scientists of his day, insisting that his hypothesis that the world is round (true) was possible but if it was true then there would be an arc much larger than his calculations indicated between Europe’s west tip to the east of Asia, specifically India. Had he not stumbled upon North America, which he thought was India, (Hence Native Americans being referred to as Indians) his men would have mutinied or perished from dehydration or starvation. His folly led to an accidental discovery of a new continent, but was not based on his greatness. Rather, it was based on his ignorance and