Multiple Causes/Effects
Below is a list of causes and effects that will be explored in our classroom, which surround the events prior to and following October 12, 1492 (the day Columbus first sighted land in the western hemisphere). Students will be asked to hypothesize their own theory of cause and effect throughout this history module.
Students will be made aware of the fact that the causes and effects listed below and discussed in class do NOT represent the only historical outcomes of this event.
What were some of the causes of Columbus' voyage?
* persistence of Columbus' dream and his determination to realize his perceived potential
* improved technological advances in naval ships, devices and techniques
* to obtain gold (wealth)
* to achieve glory (fame)
* to spread the word of God (Christianity)
* to expedite a trade route to Asia in a westerly direction
What were some of the effects of Columbus' voyages?
* Upon return to Spain after his first voyage Columbus was titled Admiral of the Ocean Sea, rewarding his
efforts.
* Some believe his voyages symbolize the more brutal aspects of European colonization and represent the
beginning of the destruction of Native American peoples and culture.
* Between voyages Columbus left men to found a colony; many were only interested in finding gold. For the
most part the motivation of greed left the colony in a disorderly state.
* Although Columbus has been judged to be vain, ambitious, desirous of wealth, and ruthless, traditional
historians viewed his voyages as opening the New World to Western civilization and Christianity.
* Columbus' efforts created a "buzz" about the "New World" encouraging conquistadors such as Cortes and
Pizarro
* Columbian Exchange - The transfer of plants, animals and diseases between the hemispheres.
Students will be made aware of the fact that the causes and effects listed below and discussed in class do NOT represent the only historical outcomes of this event.
What were some of the causes of Columbus' voyage?
* persistence of Columbus' dream and his determination to realize his perceived potential
* improved technological advances in naval ships, devices and techniques
* to obtain gold (wealth)
* to achieve glory (fame)
* to spread the word of God (Christianity)
* to expedite a trade route to Asia in a westerly direction
What were some of the effects of Columbus' voyages?
* Upon return to Spain after his first voyage Columbus was titled Admiral of the Ocean Sea, rewarding his
efforts.
* Some believe his voyages symbolize the more brutal aspects of European colonization and represent the
beginning of the destruction of Native American peoples and culture.
* Between voyages Columbus left men to found a colony; many were only interested in finding gold. For the
most part the motivation of greed left the colony in a disorderly state.
* Although Columbus has been judged to be vain, ambitious, desirous of wealth, and ruthless, traditional
historians viewed his voyages as opening the New World to Western civilization and Christianity.
* Columbus' efforts created a "buzz" about the "New World" encouraging conquistadors such as Cortes and
Pizarro
* Columbian Exchange - The transfer of plants, animals and diseases between the hemispheres.