The inhabitants . . . are well made, but because they are timid and full of terror. . . . But when they see that they are safe, and all fear is banished, they are very guileless and honest, and very liberal of all they have.

Question

–Letter to Gabriel Sanchez, Christopher Columbus

Which statement best explains why the passage is biased?

The author expresses an opinion about the native people.
The author provides factual evidence about the native people.
Multiple perspectives on the native people are included in the passage.
Specific details about the native people’s actions are included in the passage.

Answer 1

The statement that best explains why the passage is biased is:

The author expresses an opinion about the native people.

This is evident as Columbus shares his subjective views on the inhabitants' timidity, guilelessness, and honesty, indicating a personal perspective rather than an objective portrayal of their characteristics.