Chapter One Zinn

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Zinn Chapter One A. Write down the FIVE most important things Zinn says about Columbus 1. Zinn says that Columbus’ discovery was a mistake. 2. Columbus shouldn’t be idolized or be a hero. 3. He imprisoned many Indians and let them die. 4. His main goal was to find gold at any cost. 5. He made promises to many people, including his crew that he never kept. B. Write down the TWO most important things he says about the writing of history. 1. He says that writings about history leave out details. 2. They don’t tell the story from the victim’s point of view. 1. According to Zinn, what is his main purpose for writing A People’s History of the United States? Answer: According to ZInn, he wanted to write a history book that told the truth. He claims that history books today leave out details and the truth behind what really happened. He composes a history book that shows the point of view from the victim. His book is more accurate and further detailed than the history books in schools. 2. What is Zinn’s thesis for first 10 minutes of reading? Answer: Zinn’s thesis for the first ten minutes is to tell how Christopher was not a hero at all. He exposes Christopher Columbus for what he really is. History books today tell how Christopher Columbus was a big hero and because of his discovery, we should celebrate him. This is not true at all. In fact, Columbus was a liar who gave promises that were never kept and he killed many of the Native Americans that he came across. 3. According to Zinn, how is Columbus portrayed in traditional history books? Answer: According to Zinn, Columbus is portrayed as a big hero and we should all dedicate a day to his discovery. People praise him because traditional history books fail to tell the truth about what he has really done. 4. Why does Zinn dispute Henry Kissinger’s statement, “History is the memory of states?”
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