Spanish Conquest | Vamos a Leer

In just a few weeks, Monday October 13th will be observed as Columbus Day. Banks will close, stores will have special sales, and many students will learn about how Christopher Columbus ‘discovered’ the Americas. Yet, this type of observance only tells one part or version of the Columbus narrative, leaving out significant parts of a violent and traumatic period in the history of the Americas. Christopher Columbus is one of the first historical figures many of our students learn about. The way he’s presented sets an important precedent for how all historical narratives are taught, analyzed, and interpreted. Consider the following from Bill Bigelow of Rethinking Schools: Continue reading →