Excerpt from Writings of Christopher Columbus: Descriptive of the Discovery and Occupation of the New World

In the four centuries which have elapsed since Christopher Columbus sailed his caravels to the westward in search of the Indies, and found in their stead a new world, two factions have developed, holding antagonistic opinions regarding his personality and achievements. The one, regardless of flaws in his character and methods, seeks his canonization from the great Church of which he was so ardent a follower, claiming that the conception, accomplishment, and results of his great discovery entitle him to a place among those whom reverent mankind must worship, as guided by more than earthly and human inspiration. The other, losing all breadth of view in the minuteness of its investigation of his life and works, finds him a vain, ignorant, and even half-mad enthusiast, his claim of Biblical prophecy and inspiration from the Trinity little better than blasphemy, his great act based on ignorance and error, and the result nothing but a lucky chance. Nor need these views occasion surprise. Such opposite opinions of the same person are not uncommon either of those who have made or are making history. As long as there are two ends to our mental opera-glass we shall have varying ideas of the magnitude of men and deeds, depending on whether the magnifying or diminishing view is taken.

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