1. For many years, Christopher Columbus was seen as a hero. In the United States, they had a holiday named after him, called, Columbus Day. As we learn more about his voyages to the "New World" and the ways in which he treated the Indigenous Peoples of the Caribbean, we must question this "hero" status.
Watch the following video.
Then write a paragraph explaining your opinion on the following. Please share this paragraph with me on Office 365.
- "Is it fair for us to judge historical figures by the values we have today rather than judging them by the values that existed during their time period?"
2. We are preparing for a trial in class. The trial will charge the following people/groups with the death of millions of Taino people. Christopher Columbus, Columbus' Men, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand and The System of Empire.
You will be assigned to a group. Each group must come up with a defense and then argue who they feel is the most guilty. Each group will also have the opportunity to provide witnesses and question other groups.
*Marks will be given for the activity so if you won't be at school, please choose ONE of the defendants listed above and then:
- Read the Indictment
- Write a well-constructed paragraph to defend yourself against the charges.
- Write a well-constructed paragraph explaining who you think is most guilty and why.
Please share this assignment with me on Office 365.
King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella indictment
The System of Empire indictment
