For this assignment, you will write the different perspectives on Columbus’s voyages and the encounter between the Europeans and the Taino as either a series of journal entries or as a poem for two voices.

Answer 1

Journal Entry 1: Columbus’s Perspective

October 12, 1492

Today, we finally reached the shores
Of an unknown land, never seen before.
Excitement fills my heart, my mind races,
As I dream of the riches this place embraces.

But as my men and I stepped on this land,
We encountered the Taino, a peaceful band.
They welcomed us with open arms, curious and kind,
Unaware of the turbulent fate they would find.

Journal Entry 2: Taino’s Perspective

October 12, 1492

Today, strangers arrived on our island's shore,
Their arrival filled us with both wonder and more.
We extended our hospitality, greeted them with cheer,
Little did we know, our world would soon disappear.

They had pale skin and strange tongues,
Their weapons seemed foreign, their ships large and strong.
We welcomed them, shared our food and our home,
Blinded by hope, unaware of the darkness to come.

Journal Entry 3: Columbus’s Perspective

November 20, 1492

Days have passed, we continue to explore,
Gathering riches, claiming more and more.
But the Taino, this native folk, I must admit,
Their trusting nature, we couldn't resist.

We marked our dominance, claimed their land,
For the glory of Spain and my own command.
I see them as mere subjects to be converted,
To Christianity, for which they're diverted.

Journal Entry 4: Taino’s Perspective

November 20, 1492

These strangers' actions have changed their tone,
They now see us as subjects, not equals as known.
Our land, once abundant, now ravaged and pillaged,
Our spirits crushed, our freedom diminished.

Our beliefs and culture forcefully suppressed,
By these strangers who think themselves blessed.
Forced into slavery, they exploit our labor,
Till we are nothing more than objects to savor.

Journal Entry 5: Columbus’s Perspective

December 5, 1492

As time passes, I can't help but reflect,
On the consequences of our conquests unchecked.
Yes, we brought new knowledge, expanding the world,
But at what cost? The suffering, the lives unfurled.

The Taino, once gentle and trusting souls,
Now suffer under our crude control.
We must reconsider our actions, our endeavor,
To protect and preserve their lives forever.

Journal Entry 6: Taino’s Perspective

December 5, 1492

They speak of reflection, but it's all too late,
It won't undo the suffering, the pain we face.
Our lives forever changed, our culture shattered,
By those who think their actions merely mattered.

We mourn the loss of what once was,
Our land, our freedom, our spirit's cause.
Though we endure, our strength remains,
As we strive to reclaim what still remains.