Columbus leaves behind a group to begin the colonisation of the Americas. He then informs them that he will return to Spain, which will be followed by the arrival of many more Europeans. Columbus teaches one of them Spanish so that they are able to communicate. The Europeans befriend the local natives, who show them gold they have collected. Suddenly, out of the mist they see the lush vegetation and sandy beaches of Guanahani. At night, Columbus notices mosquitoes on the deck, indicating that land is not far off. He tries to reinvigorate them with an inspiring speech, coinciding with a fast wind, which goads the men to return to their duties.
The crew becomes restless and edges toward mutiny. Columbus meets with the queen, who grants him his journey in exchange for his promise to bring back sufficient amounts of riches in gold.Ĭolumbus deceives many crewmen by telling them that the voyage will only last seven weeks. Columbus is approached by Martín Pinzón, a shipowner from Palos, who introduces him to the banker Santángel, to whom Queen Isabella I owes money. The Catholic theologians at the University of Salamanca heavily disapprove of Columbus's plan, not being keen on ideas that go against the writings of Ptolemaeus.
See also: Voyages of Christopher ColumbusĪware that the world is round, Christopher Columbus lobbies for a trip westward to Asia, but lacks a crew and ship.
