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Compare And Contrast Cortes And Columbus

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The Americas were a surprising discovery for Europeans, bringing forth new riches and land. Most would do anything to gain control of the lands, and few were concerned with the treatment of the natives. Cortes and Columbus both insist on the inferiority of the natives and were eager to conquer them, while Las Casas regrets the motives and actions of Europeans. Cortes and Columbus marveled at the new world and its people, but justified their actions in order to conquer it. In Cortes’ letter to Emperor Henry the 5th, he describes the wonders of the Aztecs, and even goes on to say, “The manner of living among people, is very similar to that of Spain.” Even with this opinion, Cortes will overthrow the Aztec Empire, taking over Mexico. He will attempt to rectify his decisions with the Emperor by saying, “This is a barbarous nation, shut off from knowledge of the true God…” Trying to prove their ignorance and need for spiritual guidance. Columbus too realizes the beauty of what he has come to find. And just like Cortes, describes the natives as naïve, “idiots”, and that the Spain could be helpful to …show more content…

Las Casas was a part of the conquering of Cuba, but soon saw the abuse of the Indians. He wrote a book describing the horrible conditions of those who had their home taken from them. “There is nothing more detestable or more cruel than the tyranny which the Spaniards use toward the Indians.” For Columbus and Cortes, religion was a way to justify their actions, but for Casas, what they did was against God himself. “Consider whether this usage be consistent with the precepts which God Commands charity our neighbor.” This being said, Casas becomes a friars and fights for the Indians, his books and actions are in an attempt to provoke the emotions of others. Las Casas’ view on the Spanish’s actions was different from Cortes and Columbus, seeing the natives as

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