Columbus

In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue, discovering America for me and you. We have all heard this little poem.First of all, he didn't "discover" North America as indigenous people were living on North America before he ever set foot on land across the "Ocean Sea" from Spain. And, the Vikings may have gotten to North America almost 500 years before Columbus made his sailing. St. Brendan, the Irish monk, may also  have actually sailed to North America... even before the Vikings. Lastly, a Chinese explorer, Zheng Ho, may have reached the Pacific shore of North America, too!

One important achievement for Columbus is that he voyages interested other people in exploration and he began what would be called the time known as the Age of Exploration.  The Age of Exploration would change the world in many positive and some negative ways. Culture contact between groups would be made and ideas and products would be exchanged. Cultures would changed and others would be destroyed.

Learn about Columbus with this informative play. There are comprehension questions, discussion questions and extension activities: http://edworldexchange.com/?q=product/christopher-columbus-readers-theater-script/1749235010

Gail
Thought question: In Seattle, there is a vote on October 6th to vote on changing the name of Columbus Day to Indigenous People's Day. What do you think of this idea?
http://www.gailhennessey.com