Ep. 17: Rethinking Christopher Columbus

All across the United States debates are flaring up around the legacy of Christopher Columbus and social traditions that spawned from his journey across the Atlantic. In light of a developing history around Columbus, one that highlights his cruelty and questionable navigational ability, the call has been made: eliminate Columbus Day and replace it with a holiday that elevates those who fell victim to his imperial mode of 'discovery.'

Based on thorough historical analysis, The Italian Renaissance Podcast supports this notion. This episode looks to lay out the argument, supported by contemporary, medieval, and renaissance sources, in order to exam the facts around Columbus. Additionally, it looks at the voice of the opposition, the stakes of cultural heritage, and the difficulties of nationalistic patriotism in light of this essential moment that bridges the Renaissance to the modern Americas.

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