When did Columbus Day become a day for celebrating Italian heritage? I’ve never heard that before. From the time of my elementary school days I understood we were celebrating Columbus Day as the discovery of the Americas even though the Vikings may have beat Christopher to it… And, what did the Italians have to do with Columbus discovering the Americas? It was Queen Isabella I of Spain who sponsored Columbus’ Voyage of Exploration. And, consider this; Isabella took a special interest in the Native Americans of the new lands; when some were brought back to Spain as slaves she insisted they be returned and freed, and her will expressed her wish that the Indians be treated with justice and fairness. Therefore, I believe it is appropriate that Columbus Day and Indigenous People’s Day share the same day of celebration. End of discussion!
Posted on: Tue, 14 Oct 2014 03:55:42 +0000