309. Columbus: Villain or Hero?

Christopher Columbus caused debate in his own time, and remains a controversial figure today: some argue he initiated both the Atlantic slave trade and the genocide of the Native Americans, others laud him as one of the great men of History. Join Tom and Dominic as they explore these issues, their roots, and the truth behind the man Columbus really was...

[largesatsuma]

I was recently in Peru and it's interesting hearing how Spanish colonisation is viewed. In places like Lima (which was a Spanish founded city) the Spanish are viewed very positively and some of the descendants of the original conquistadors still have houses there. In Cusco, however, the capital city of the Inca, the view is quite different!

[royboy]

Oh boy, Dominic, sounds a bit too defensive of Columbus.

" ...I mean he didn't genocide the natives, because he needed a workforce, but hey he killed them if they didn't work for

Give me a break !

[gosiachaaban]

My Mexican friend tells me that in her country Spanish colonisation is perceived much more positively than in Europe. Children are taught that Spanish saved them from the cruelty of Aztecs.

[kathleenphillips]

I like the variety of topics you guys discuss and have been randomly listening. My problem has been finding the connected chapters to what I’m listening to. Other than that, this channel represents the best YT has to offer.

[FlyJohnny]

Viewing history with genuine curiosity and some grasp of complex human behavior is the start of understanding. To see the humour alongside the tragedy and triumph of the past is to recognize ourselves in the pages of history.

[leehallam]

I think one can judge Columbus in two ways, in his achievements and his behaviour. He achieved a great deal albeit not what he hoped to achieve, he also was in many ways a bad leader and the stubbornness which meant he could keep going also prevented him understanding the reality around him. His behaviour once out at sea was atrocious, he was utterly ruthless, and the criticism at the time is a mark against giving him too much leeway. But blaming him for the unforseen consequences is rediculous. However badly he behaved, none of that compelled others to follow his example. He couldn't know about the impact of disease and he didn't come seeking conquest, the poor devil just wanted to get to China.

[IanCross-xjgj]

At English secondary school in the 1960s we were taught that Columbus diiscovered America. "1066 and all that." Only in later life, have I discovered the downside of his explorations. 😮

[mmf]

Look at Brazil and you have the answer to what Portugal would have done….

[charliesinnott]

Bravo gentleman, listened to each episode 2 or 3 times. My vote is he is a hero.

[ekesandras]

Genetics have proven that the population of the Dominican Republic has quite a significant proportion of Taino genes. You can also see that, since they look different from mulattos who have only African and European ancestry withouth the indigenous component. So the myth of complete genocide on Hispaniola cannot be true.

[royboy]

He sounds like a typical European, who believed in his own superiority, who accordingly, treated humans with disregard, as beasts of burden and brutality.

Like all monsters of history, his exploits and skills, does not diminish his murderous and savage treatment of native peoples.

Absolute Villain

[IanCross-xjgj]

Recommend a book by Marie Arana, "Silver, Sword & Stone", the story of Latin America. Good primer on S American history. Columbus day is 2 September.

[robertalpy]

He was likely a spy for Portugal but it turns out he was so successful for Spain that though they discovered his treachery, they didn't punish him too severely.

[launiesoult]

Columbus Day is a Federal holiday in the United States😮🎉

[jannarkiewicz]

never herd the poem 😢😢😢 I am the right age. Columbus was a dolt

[aristocraticrebel]

100% a hero. It takes a lot of balls to do what he did. A great man.

[AngryNegativeHistoryProject]

Interesting take on history. Your adjectives spell out your bias. Can you pick out my bias in my channel? Probably not, because I don't use adjectives like you do towards Columbus or the Indians.

[TheOriginalNiceGuy]

Waaay too much virtue signaling in your podcasts. Come on guys- it’s rammed down everyone’s throat in daily life and society now, not here too. Give us a break. I realize you’re trying to protect yourself from getting canceled or whatever. But have some courage.