I found the Zinn reading particularly interesting because I often find myself flip flopping on the debate about celebrating Columbus Day. On one hand, we have to credit a large portion of the discovery and and establishment of the Americas to Columbus, which is a pretty important feat. But on the other hand, glorifying somebody who enslaved, raped, and killed natives is obviously not what we want to do. Unfortunately, this trend continued for too long once the states were established. The treatment of Native Americans is one of the most atrocious, yet under recognized doings in our country’s history. The over-simplification of the story of Columbus makes me wonder how many other people I have glorified and celebrated without being told their entire story. I believe people neglect to tell these parts of the stories in order to “save face” and portray a good image of their country. A similar situation is one that takes place right in Richmond on Monument Ave. Although I don’t think removing the status is the answer, I do think the addition of plaques or other statues to tell the other part of the story that Is neglected is necessary.
Critical Thinking
I definitely feel the conflict as well, especially when these days are given a “holiday” status. We are taught as CHILDREN to be fond of Columbus are fed lies about him, but it is still hard to undo all these years of learning.
I agree. In my response I said that I think we should eradicate the status but if that’s not the answer then plaques providing context of the history should be added.
I have always thought we should move the statues to a museum. They should not be in public view where people are forced to see them. I understand that we can’t erase history, but that’s what museums are for. Those who want to study it can visit the museum, but those who are negatively affected by it do not have to see it.
Personally I don’t struggle with the conflict of how to view Columbus. He isn’t even the first European that discovered the Americas, and while it did kick a huge part of history, there is no denying that history is deeply if not entirely corrupted by the racism, enslavement, and genocide that followed it.