This year as I've been reading historical fiction to the kids, I've also been researching the facts. And I've been very disappointed with the conflicting information that is available. I've also been disappointed with my recollection of History.
For instance, I thought we celebrated Columbus Day because Columbus was the first explorer to discover America - North America, that is.
Ohhh, noooo! He never stepped foot on North American soil. He landed on the islands south of Florida. A guy named Leif Ericson actually landed in North America (Newfoundland) about 500 years before Columbus!
And then we discoverd that Columbus and his men captured some of the natives from the islands and took them back to Spain to sell as slaves.
Why in the world are we celebrating this guy?
I also thought the Pilgrims were all Puritans seeking religious freedom and were the first people to colonize in America. Ohhh, nooooo! The Pilgrims were made up of Puritans and Strangers or Adventurers. The Adventurers were in it for the adventure and possible fortune they may gain. And King James, eager to be rich like Spain and France, sent a group over about 14 years before the Pilgrims. By the time the Pilgrims got here Jamestown was an established colony going strong.
Anyway...I started thinking, I just want to read actual letters and memoirs of people who were alive during these times. I want actual accounts.
The Botkin Family has compiled letters and eye-witness accounts of people in History and are offering this information in the form of audio books read by Mrs. Botkin titled:
They are offering them in a bundle at an introductory price that is 30% off or individually at 20% off. You can go here to find out more or here to order.
1 comment:
I've said the same thing about Columbus! :) Thanks for this info, will be looking into it...love history!
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