Explorer of New Worlds

Worksheet Description

The “Explorer of New Worlds” worksheet provides a historical overview of Christopher Columbus’s life and voyages. It is designed to give students a nuanced perspective on Columbus’s impact on history. The worksheet outlines Columbus’s early life, his ambition to find a faster route to Asia, and the subsequent voyages he undertook after securing the patronage of the Spanish monarchy. It describes his exploration of various islands and coastlines of the Caribbean and Central and South America, highlighting both the opportunities and the adverse consequences that arose from his expeditions.

In addition to detailing Columbus’s achievements and the exploration of new lands, the worksheet also addresses the complex legacy of his journeys, noting the significant impact they had on the indigenous populations and the start of European colonization in the Americas. It prompts critical thinking by acknowledging the controversies surrounding Columbus’s actions and their long-term effects. The worksheet is an educational resource that can foster discussion on exploration, the Age of Discovery, and the broader implications of these historical events. It encourages students to reflect on the different facets of Columbus’s legacy and to understand the lasting influence of these expeditions on the world.