|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
Here are the fun myths!
Below is a long page of myths and the facts about them that will seem logical and illogical. Any damage done to the viewer of this page is the viewers own responsibility. Any claims must be directed at our attorneys of Dewey, Cheatum, and Howe.
**Myth #1: Columbus set out to prove the earth was round. Reality: Actually, by the end of the 1400s, most people in Europe knew that the earth was not flat. What was in question was the size of the earth - its circumference. Even Columbus underestimated the size of the earth by one-fourth.
Myth #2: Queen Isabella sold the crown jewels to pay for Columbus' voyage. Reality: The queen may have considered this, but her advisors told her that the best way to get money was to make the city of Palos pay back a debt to the crown by providing two of the ships. The Italians were also coerced into providing financial backing.
Myth #3: The crews of Columbus' three ships were made up of criminals and n'er do wells. Reality: Actually, Columbus' crews were composed of seasoned sailors from the towns of Palos and Moguer, Spain. In case Columbus had trouble putting together a crew, the crown offered amnesty to criminals. But only four criminals were on board; one a convicted murderer (he killed a man in a quarrel); the other three were accused of freeing him from prison.
Myth #4: The first voyage from Spain to the New World was perilous. There was bad weather and a lack of food. Several sailors died on the way. Reality: In fact, no one died on the maiden voyage. There was enough food aboard for one year. The weather was almost ideal, and no storms were encountered. However, on the return voyage, a major hurricane almost destroyed the two remaining ships.
For even more outrageous myths, visit this link here: http://muslimonline.com/babri/columbus3.htm Though its a long website (the reason we didn't put it on here), it has many funny myths about Columbus's many trials and tribulations (or lack thereof).
Sources:
