[CaptainHaplo]

It is so true that history is written by the neutral observerr, propaganda is written by the victor.

Ultimately, Columbus was not looking for new lands to exploit. When new lands to exploit were found - the European powers had no ethical issues with doing so. "Americans" often forget how much of our own history is one of exploitation, and I am not talking about slavery (though that is an issue too, and not merely a "southern" one as some believe). During the centuries, the US government violated most of its treaties with the major indian tribes. Even today. there are a couple of tribes who still are technically at war with the US Government. One I distinctly recall being based in Florida.

Maybe its not just gators that get ya if you wander in the swamps?

The history of humanity, regardless of "nationality", is one of exploitation. To say otherwise is to ignore history. Columbus was no doubt a historical figure. His actions were what they were. Was he an "evil" man? No more so than any other person who opens a door. While his own acts may be judged, he is not personally responsible for anything more than his own acts. The exploitation that followed he did not choose.

To each person belongs the responsibilities of their own decisions, not the decisions of the rest of the world.