There was always a sort of knowledge that Columbus was not a complete hero growing up. I grew up with a mother who taught history and had a deep respect for the Native Americans who once thrived on this continent. However I paid little attention to the history of Columbus. I had learned from a young age that other European explorers (most memorably the Vikings) had arrived in the Americas long before Columbus, but what I did not realize was the details of the Columbian expeditions.
I believe I first discovered that the Columbus story had been whitewashed in either late elementary school or early middle school. I learned that he was not Spanish nor was he a kind man to the Native peoples. While my teachers understood that Columbus was less of an important figure than traditionally presented, they also omitted (or possibly were unaware of) his cruelties. The knowledge of the details of his cruelty actually came as late as college. While discussing the importance of primary sources in an art class, I read an excerpt from Lies My Teacher Told Me which explained the history of Columbus as seen from journal writings and other primary sources. Seeing the evidence of the cruelty gave rise to how I need to teach this figure moving forward.
I feel that when discussing this figure, i would want to handle the subject by explaining the truth, but I may adopt the method used in A Young People's History. Discussing the history of the tribes before Columbus can allow for students to build a respect for the Native population. Understanding this perspective may allow students to get a better view of the true story of Columbus and provide a foundation for learning for the details later in their academic careers.
I believe I first discovered that the Columbus story had been whitewashed in either late elementary school or early middle school. I learned that he was not Spanish nor was he a kind man to the Native peoples. While my teachers understood that Columbus was less of an important figure than traditionally presented, they also omitted (or possibly were unaware of) his cruelties. The knowledge of the details of his cruelty actually came as late as college. While discussing the importance of primary sources in an art class, I read an excerpt from Lies My Teacher Told Me which explained the history of Columbus as seen from journal writings and other primary sources. Seeing the evidence of the cruelty gave rise to how I need to teach this figure moving forward.
I feel that when discussing this figure, i would want to handle the subject by explaining the truth, but I may adopt the method used in A Young People's History. Discussing the history of the tribes before Columbus can allow for students to build a respect for the Native population. Understanding this perspective may allow students to get a better view of the true story of Columbus and provide a foundation for learning for the details later in their academic careers.
Comments
Post a Comment