Columbus's description of the Caribbean islands reflects Spain's motivations for sending him—namely, the search for wealth, new trade routes, and the expansion of territory. He emphasized the islands' resources, like gold and spices, and their potential for exploitation, showing he was focused on economic gain and glory for Spain.
If Columbus had complete freedom to explore without specific goals, his observations might have been broader and more focused on understanding the cultures and ecosystems of the islands rather than purely seeking wealth. He might have noted more about the indigenous peoples’ ways of life and the natural environment instead of primarily focusing on resources.
This different approach could have led to a greater appreciation for the diverse cultures and more sustainable interactions between the Europeans and the indigenous populations. It might have lessened the devastation that often followed European colonization. If future explorers had followed a similar path, world history could have seen a more balanced exchange between different cultures rather than the violent conquests that occurred. This may have resulted in more collaborative relationships and possibly even different colonial developments.