What was the reason Columbus sailed to the Americans?
He wanted to find riches
He wanted to prove that the world was round
He wanted to prove his seamanship ••
He wanted to see India
I would vote for the riches :)
He was quite sure the world was round as were most navigators but he far underestimated the diameter and therefore thought he was in the East Indies when in fact he was in the West Indies :)
The reason Christopher Columbus sailed to the Americas was primarily to find a new sea route to India in order to establish trade and bring back valuable riches. However, it's worth noting that your list contains multiple possible reasons and motivations for Columbus's journey, which historians have debated over time. Let me explain how to get a better understanding of Columbus's motivations.
To explore Columbus's true intentions, one can start by studying primary historical sources such as his journal entries and letters. In these documents, Columbus himself discussed his desire to reach the East Indies (India) and acquire wealth, specifically mentioning the prospect of finding gold, spices, and precious items.
Considering the other options presented:
- The idea that he wanted to prove that the world was round is a popular misconception. By Columbus's time, educated people already knew that the Earth was round, and he was not trying to prove the shape of the Earth.
- The notion that he wanted to prove his seamanship is partially correct. Columbus was an experienced sailor and sought recognition for his skills and accomplishments. However, this was not his primary motivation for the voyage.
- Although Columbus did want to see India, it was not merely for curiosity or exploration purposes. His main goal was to establish trade routes and gain access to the valuable goods and wealth of the East.
By examining primary sources and historical records, we can better understand the motivations behind Columbus's voyage to the Americas.