mckaywest11e

Chapter Chronology

Quiz for Primary Source 14.2: Columbus Describes His First Voyage

Question

1. Of which of these does Columbus’s letter provide evidence?

That Columbus met fierce opposition when he landed in the Americas

That Columbus was primarily interested in converting the native population

That Columbus believed he had reached Asia

That Columbus was, first and foremost, a man of science

Correct. The answer is c. The references in the letter to Cathay confirm that Columbus believed he had reached China.

Incorrect. The answer is c. The references in the letter to Cathay confirm that Columbus believed he had reached China.

Question

2. What did Columbus’s letter suggest about Hispaniola?

That it would make an ideal colony

That it was all but uninhabitable

That it might be suitable for farming but offered little else of value

That it was well defended by formidable native armies

Correct. The answer is a. As Columbus described it, Hispaniola had wonderful farmland, good harbors, numerous sites for building cities, and an abundance of gold and spices.

Incorrect. The answer is a. As Columbus described it, Hispaniola had wonderful farmland, good harbors, numerous sites for building cities, and an abundance of gold and spices.

Question

3. How did Columbus characterize the inhabitants of Hispaniola?

Timid, generous, and intelligent

Primitive, unyielding, and warlike

Refined, subtle, and deceitful

Strong, brave, and stupid

Correct. The answer is a. Columbus praised their generosity and intelligence but equated their lack of sophisticated weapons with timidity.

Incorrect. The answer is a. Columbus praised their generosity and intelligence but equated their lack of sophisticated weapons with timidity.