Summary of Letter from the New Land by Christopher Columbus
‘Columbus’s Letter’ is one of the early writings in which he describes new people in the New World. The letter shows how mesmerized (spellbound) he was because of the unpolluted and unmediated (not altered) environment of the newly discovered island.
The main purpose of this letter is to provide information of his discoveries in the New World. The voyage is considered to be a great success. Columbus records that he has found many islands with a significant population. More importantly, he aims to show that he has taken possession of these new lands for his King. This is shown by the sequential renaming of various islands. He wants to reassure all that the lands are fertile and rich with gold.
In his letter, Columbus tries to present the islands of the Indies as suitable for future colonization. His descriptions of the natural habitat emphasize that the rivers, woodlands, pastures, and fields are very suitable for planting and cultivating, for raising all sorts of livestock herds and founding towns and farms. He proclaims that in Hispaniola there exist many spices, mines of gold, and other metals.
Columbus describes the native people of the islands as primitive, innocent, and unthreatening. He describes how they go about largely naked, that they lack metal weapons, and are fearful and timid. He claims that he and his team show nothing but hospitality to the natives. He goes on to prohibit his men from dealing unfairly with the natives.
Columbus makes a particular note that the natives lack organized religion. He claims the native people believe he and his people have come down from heaven. He notes that the natives of different islands seem to speak the same language and are not slow or unskilled, but of excellent and acute understanding. He also notes that the women appear to work more than the men.
Columbus reveals that natives told him about the possible existence of cannibals, which he refers to as monsters. They are reported to be long-haired, very ferocious, and eat human flesh, but he has not seen them himself. In his letter, he mentions that he is grateful to the king and queen for their support. His victory could help not only Spain but also all Christian nations gain benefits.
The islands Christopher Columbus found on his first voyage were San Salvador (called Guanaham by the natives), Santa Maria de Concepcion, Fernandina, Isabella, Juana (Cuba), and Hispaniola.
San Salvador was the first island he landed on on October 12, 1492. He renamed it San Salvador, meaning “Holy Savior,” though the native Taíno name was Guanahani, which he records as Guanaham.
Santa María de Concepción was the second island he named, in honor of the Virgin Mary.
Fernandina was named in honor of King Ferdinand of Spain.
Isabella was named in honor of Queen Isabella of Spain.
Juana was named in honor of the Spanish princess Juana (Joanna), daughter of Ferdinand and Isabella. This island is what we now call Cuba.
Hispaniola means “Little Spain.” This island is now divided into Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Columbus was especially impressed by its size, fertility, and gold potential. He founded the settlement La Navidad here.
Answer these questions.
1. How were the inhabitants of Hispaniola as described by Columbus?
The inhabitants of Hispaniola were well-made men of commanding stature but very timid. They had no iron, steel, or proper weapons and did not know how to fight. They were unsuspicious, gentle, and extremely generous with what they possessed. They shared their food freely and never refused anything that was asked of them. They had no religion or idolatry and believed that power and goodness were in heaven.
2. Why were men left in the City of Navidad?
Men were left in the City of Navidad to hold and protect the town for the Spanish king and queen. Columbus had begun fortifications there and wanted them to be completed. The place was important for access to gold mines and trade. The men were left with arms, artillery, and enough provisions for more than a year. They were also to maintain Spanish control over the area.
3. Why did Columbus give good and pretty things to people whom he met?
Columbus gave good and pretty things to the people to win their love and friendship. He wanted to make them trust him and his men. He also wished to encourage them to become Christians. By doing so, he hoped they would serve the Spanish king and queen. He believed this would help the Spaniards obtain useful things from them.
4. How were the canoes used? For what purposes did people use them?
The people used canoes to travel between the many islands. The canoes were rowed very fast and could carry many men at one time. They used them to move around the seas easily. The canoes were also used to carry goods. Through them, the people carried on their trade and commerce.
5. What kinds of possible economic activities did Columbus expect to take place in Hispaniola?
Columbus expected gold mining to take place in Hispaniola because the rivers contained gold. He believed there would be profitable trade through its fine seaports. He expected spices, cotton, and other valuable products to be collected. He thought the fertile land could be used for farming and pasturage. He also expected slaves to be taken and sent to Spain.
6. What kinds of geography, natural beauty, and flora and fauna did Columbus find in Hispaniola?
Columbus found Hispaniola to be a large and fertile island with hills, mountains, and wide plains. He described its many fine seaports and large flowing rivers. The land was covered with tall trees that were always green and full of blossoms and fruits. There were palm trees, pine woods, and vast meadow lands. He also saw many kinds of birds, including nightingales, and a great variety of fruits.
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