This island is inhabited by a certain people who are considered very warlike by their neighbors. And so I did not see any monstrosity, nor did I have knowledge of them anywhere, excepting a certain island named Charis,[ which is the second in passing from Hispana to India. On the tops of the mountains, too, the cold is severe, but the Indians, however, moderate it, partly by being accustomed to the place, and partly by the help of very hot victuals, of which they eat frequently and immoderately. They do not remain where the solar rays send out the heat, for the strength of the sun is very great here, because it is distant from the equinoctial line, as it seems, only twenty-six degrees. I found no monstrosities among them, as very many supposed, but men of great reverence, and friendly. I was not able to find out surely whether they have individual property, for I saw that one man had the duty of distributing to the others, especially refreshments, food, and things of that kind. The women appear to work more than the men. In all these islands, as I have understood, each man is content with only one wife, except the princes or kings, who are permitted to have twenty. For that reason those who hold the said fort are at least able to resist easily this whole island, without any imminent danger to themselves, so long as they do not transgress the regulations and command which we gave. And if they should change their minds, and should wish to hurt those who remained in the fort, they would not be able, because they lack weapons, they go naked, and are too cowardly. Place: San Salvador Island Santa Maria, Replica of Columbus’ Ship, in Funchal Harbor, Portugalįor those people are very amiable and kind, to such a degree that the said King gloried in calling me his brother. Previously in Columbus Discovers America. For works benefiting from the latest research see the “More information” section at the bottom of these pages. This selection is presented in 3 easy 5 minute installments. With a selection from Letter by Christopher Columbus published in 1492.

I promise this, that if I am supported by our most invincible sovereigns with a little of their help, as much gold can be supplied as they will need, indeed as much of spices, of cotton, of chewing-gum (which is only found in Chios), also as much of aloes-wood, and as many slaves for the navy, as their majesties will wish to demand.

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