Entry #1 Howard Zinn, "Columbus, the Arawaks, and Human Progress"

Brian Gerker
ETHN 101
Reading Journal Entry #1
8-22-2007

Howard Zinn, “Columbus, the Arawaks, and Human Progress”

Thesis: “ Thus began the history, five hundred years ago, of the European invasion of the Indian settlements in the Americas, a history of conquest, slavery and death. But in the history books given to children in the United States, for generation after generation, it all starts with heroic adventure—there is no bloodshed—and Columbus Day is a celebration.”

Zinn’s argument is centered towards teaching the truth of the history that happened once Columbus discovered America. Truths that Zinn brings forth include the slaughter of the Indians and how the Indians were used for slaves, mining, and sex. He also argues how Columbus was more concerned for gold and the land and his own well-being than he was concerned with the Indian’s lives.

A question that can be posed to Zinn’s point of view is “How do you teach this history to elementary children?” Zinn believes that the truth of the killing of Indians and many other gruesome details should be taught in place of the view that Columbus is a hero, but that is not content suitable for kids. His argument is clear and has it’s valid points, but certain precautions should be taken before taking this point of view and re-writing history books. Using the example of teaching children, some measures could be enacted to teach them what really happened, but with great caution. It is important to teach children of ethnic differences and the European invasion of the Indians, but to teach young kids to the extent the Zinn thinks should be done will cause more problems than are solved. Zinn’s views should be acknowledged, but to replace them into kids texts is going a bit far.

After reading the material, I was initially surprised. I have been taught before the Columbus was not as heroic as he is remembered for, but I did not know the details that Zinn provided. It actually made me think a lot more about people’s differences and how ridiculous it is to exploit a race just for personal profit or gain. It really showed a viewpoint I had not known before, and now knowing this, I think Zinn is correct that both sides of the story should be taught. Although, I still do not think they should be taught to children in detail, but at least recognized.