How does Columbus's description of the Caribbean islands reflect Spain's motivations for sending him there? Suppose Columbus simply had complete freedom to explore the world without specific goals in mind.

Question

How does Columbus's description of the Caribbean islands reflect Spain's motivations for sending him there? Suppose Columbus simply had complete freedom to explore the world without specific goals in mind.

How would that have affected his observations? Routes, trades, slaves, wealth, etc

How might it have affected world history? Express your opinions and provide specific predictions if possible. In four sentences

Answer 1

Columbus's description of the Caribbean islands reflects Spain's motivations for sending him there as he emphasized the abundance of natural resources, the potential for valuable trade, and the possibility of finding wealth and gold. If Columbus had complete freedom to explore without specific goals, his observations would likely have been more diverse and focused on natural wonders, cultures, and geographic features. There may have been less emphasis on exploiting resources and establishing trade routes. This could have potentially led to a more respectful and cooperative approach towards indigenous populations, avoiding the devastating impacts of colonization and the transatlantic slave trade. The course of world history might have been different with the possibility of more equitable and peaceful interactions between different civilizations, potentially promoting cultural exchange and mutual prosperity.