who found america before columbus
The discovery of America is often attributed to Christopher Columbus, who landed on the shores of the Caribbean islands in 1492. However, recent evidence suggests that America was not truly “discovered” by Columbus, as it was already inhabited by indigenous peoples. In fact, there is growing evidence that other explorers had reached the Americas long before Columbus set sail. In this article, we will explore the different theories and evidence surrounding the question of who found America before Columbus.
The first theory suggests that the Vikings, specifically Leif Erikson, were the first to reach America. According to the Icelandic sagas, Leif Erikson sailed from Greenland to Vinland (believed to be modern-day Newfoundland) around the year 1000. The sagas describe how Erikson and his crew established a settlement in Vinland and interacted with the indigenous people there. However, there is limited archaeological evidence to support this theory, and it remains a controversial topic among historians.
Another theory points to the Chinese as the first to discover America. In 1421, Chinese admiral Zheng He led a fleet of ships on a voyage to chart the Indian Ocean. Some believe that on this voyage, Zheng He’s fleet reached the Americas, specifically the west coast of the United States. This theory is supported by the discovery of Chinese artifacts, such as coins and pottery, in North America. However, there is no concrete evidence to prove that the Chinese reached the Americas before Columbus.
Some theories suggest that the Polynesians, who were expert navigators, also reached the Americas before Columbus. It is believed that they may have used a method called “wayfinding,” which involves using the stars, currents, and other natural elements to navigate long distances. The Polynesians are known to have reached many islands in the Pacific, and some evidence, such as sweet potatoes and chicken bones, suggests that they also reached South America. However, there is no conclusive evidence to support this theory, and it remains a subject of debate.
Another theory points to the possibility that the ancient Egyptians reached America. This theory is based on the discovery of Egyptian artifacts, such as a statue of the Egyptian god Osiris, in the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Some believe that the Egyptians may have used the Atlantic Ocean as a trade route, and in the process, reached the Americas. However, there is limited evidence to support this theory, and it is largely considered to be a far-fetched idea.
One of the most intriguing theories suggests that the Irish reached America before Columbus. The legend of St. Brendan, an Irish monk who lived in the 6th century, tells of his voyage to a distant land. Some believe that this distant land was actually America, and that St. Brendan and his crew were the first Europeans to set foot on the continent. There have been attempts to recreate St. Brendan’s voyage, and while some have been successful in reaching North America, there is no concrete evidence to prove that St. Brendan actually reached America.
Another theory points to the possibility that the Phoenicians, an ancient civilization that inhabited what is now modern-day Lebanon, reached America. The Phoenicians were known for their advanced sailing and navigational skills, and some believe that they may have reached the Americas through the Atlantic Ocean. This theory is supported by the discovery of Phoenician artifacts, such as coins and inscriptions, in North America. However, there is not enough evidence to conclusively prove that the Phoenicians reached America before Columbus.
The last theory we will explore is perhaps the most controversial one: that the ancient aliens were the first to reach America. This theory suggests that extraterrestrial beings visited Earth thousands of years ago and interacted with ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans and Aztecs. Some believe that these aliens may have also reached the Americas and influenced the development of these civilizations. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this theory, and it remains a topic of speculation.
While there are many theories and pieces of evidence that suggest other explorers reached America before Columbus, it is important to note that none of these theories have been conclusively proven. The lack of concrete evidence and the controversies surrounding these theories make it difficult to determine who truly discovered America before Columbus.
One reason for the lack of evidence is the destruction of many artifacts and records by the European colonizers who came later. Many indigenous cultures were also decimated, making it difficult to gather information about their history and interactions with other civilizations. This has led to the dominance of the Columbus narrative, as it is the most well-documented and accepted version of the discovery of America.
However, the growing interest in alternative theories and the advancements in technology have led to new discoveries and a deeper understanding of the past. For example, DNA analysis has shown that the indigenous peoples of the Americas have genetic ties to people from Asia and Polynesia, supporting the theory of early migration to the Americas. Archaeological excavations have also uncovered new evidence of pre-Columbian contact with the Americas.
In conclusion, while Columbus is often credited with the discovery of America, there is evidence that other explorers may have reached the continent before him. The theories and evidence surrounding this topic continue to evolve and spark debates among historians and researchers. As we continue to uncover new information and reexamine our understanding of history, it is possible that we may discover new evidence that sheds light on the question of who truly found America before Columbus.
classic books for 13 year olds
As children enter their teenage years, their reading preferences and abilities begin to change. They are no longer satisfied with the simple stories of their childhood, and are looking for more complex and thought-provoking literature. This is where classic books come in. These timeless tales have stood the test of time and have captivated readers of all ages for generations. In this article, we will explore some of the best classic books for 13 year olds, and why they are still relevant and enjoyable for young readers today.
1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
First published in 1960, “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a classic novel that deals with issues of racial inequality and injustice in the American South. The story is narrated by a young girl named Scout, who lives in a small town and witnesses her father, a lawyer, defend a black man accused of raping a white woman. Through Scout’s eyes, readers are able to see the harsh realities of racism and the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. This book is a must-read for 13 year olds, as it teaches valuable lessons about empathy, courage, and the power of words.
2. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
“The Giver” is a dystopian novel that follows a 12-year-old boy named Jonas who lives in a seemingly perfect society where there is no pain, war, or suffering. However, as Jonas is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, he starts to uncover the dark secrets behind the society’s seemingly idyllic façade. This book explores themes of individuality, conformity, and the consequences of a society that values sameness over diversity. It challenges readers to think about the importance of emotions and the role they play in shaping who we are.
3. “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
“The Diary of a Young Girl” is a powerful and heart-wrenching account of a young girl’s life during the Holocaust. Anne Frank, a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl, kept a diary while hiding from the Nazis with her family in Amsterdam. Her diary entries provide a glimpse into the daily life of a Jewish family during this dark period in history. This book not only educates readers about the Holocaust, but it also shows the resilience and hope of a young girl facing unimaginable circumstances. It is a moving and important read for 13 year olds, as it teaches them about the importance of standing up against injustice and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
4. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton
“The Outsiders” is a coming-of-age novel that follows a group of teenage boys from different social classes. The story is narrated by fourteen-year-old Ponyboy, who is part of the Greasers, a group of boys from the wrong side of the tracks. The Greasers are constantly at odds with the Socs, a group of wealthy and popular boys. Through the eyes of Ponyboy, readers are able to see the struggles of growing up in a society where social status and stereotypes play a huge role. This book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the effects of socioeconomic status on an individual’s life.
5. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
Published in 1868, “Little Women” is a beloved classic that follows the lives of four sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March – as they navigate their way through childhood and into adulthood. Set in the midst of the Civil War, this book explores themes of family, sisterhood, and the expectations placed on women in society. Each sister has her own unique personality and struggles, making this book relatable and inspiring for 13 year old readers. It also teaches important lessons about love, forgiveness, and the power of perseverance.
6. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
“The Secret Garden” is a magical and heartwarming novel that tells the story of Mary, a young girl who is sent to live with her uncle in a large and mysterious estate in England. As she explores the estate, Mary discovers a hidden garden that has been locked up for years. With the help of her cousin and a local boy, Mary works to restore the garden and bring it back to life. Along the way, she learns about the power of nature, friendship, and the healing effects of love and kindness. This book is a classic tale of hope and transformation that is perfect for 13 year olds.
7. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle
“A Wrinkle in Time” is a science fiction novel that follows the journey of thirteen-year-old Meg Murry, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they travel through time and space to rescue Meg and Charles Wallace’s father. Along the way, they encounter strange creatures and face their own fears and insecurities. This book is a perfect blend of adventure, science, and philosophy, making it an engaging and thought-provoking read for 13 year olds. It also delves into themes of good versus evil, the power of love, and the importance of individuality.
8. “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll
“Curiouser and curiouser!” Alice’s adventures in Wonderland are a delightfully imaginative and whimsical journey that has captured the hearts of readers for over a century. This classic book follows the adventures of a young girl who falls down a rabbit hole and enters a world full of eccentric and nonsensical characters. Through her journey, Alice learns valuable lessons about growing up, identity, and the power of imagination. This book is a must-read for 13 year olds, as it encourages them to embrace their curiosity and to see the world in a different way.
9. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
“The Catcher in the Rye” is a coming-of-age story that has been widely acclaimed as one of the greatest American novels of all time. It follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a sixteen-year-old boy who has just been expelled from his prep school. The novel takes place over the course of three days as Holden wanders around New York City, grappling with his own identity and the phoniness of the adult world. This book explores themes of identity, alienation, and the struggles of growing up, making it a relatable and thought-provoking read for 13 year olds.
10. “Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery
“Anne of Green Gables” is a heartwarming and charming novel that follows the adventures of an orphan girl named Anne Shirley, who is mistakenly sent to live with an elderly brother and sister on Prince Edward Island. Anne’s vivid imagination and determination to make a place for herself in the world make her an endearing and relatable character for young readers. This book teaches important lessons about friendship, family, and the power of positive thinking. It also highlights the beauty of nature and the importance of embracing our differences.
In conclusion, these classic books for 13 year olds offer valuable lessons, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page. They are timeless tales that have stood the test of time and continue to captivate readers of all ages. Whether your 13 year old is looking for a heartwarming story, an exciting adventure, or a thought-provoking read, these books are sure to satisfy their reading cravings and expand their minds. So go ahead and introduce them to these classic tales, and watch as they fall in love with the power of literature.