Verrazano, Vespucci, and Columbus are men that changed the course of European History forever contributing to the colonization of land unknown to European cartographers and merchants. New historiographical trends and groups advocating for minority rights are reconsidering the role of “Italian” explorers who have become American National Heroes, claiming they should not be celebrated but presented for what they are – murderers.
Read the articles provided research the Internet for news and more info on manifestation against Columbus Day; then answer the following questions:
Why did Columbus cross the Atlantic Ocean? Was finding a route to “India” his only goal? When was Columbus day turned into a federal holiday? Who lobbied for its institution? Why are people asking for Columbus day to be abolished? Can you link these protests to a broader general trend in the revision (or re-envision) of our “national history?” Do you agree with the abolition of all Columbus day and all that symbolizes oppression?
