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How Columbus Conquered the Americas with an Eclipse
The Myth and Reality of the Blood Moon
In light of the recent eclipse, I am brought back to the interesting encounter Christopher Columbus had with the people of Jamaica.
While stranded and starving, the conniving explorer intimidated the local inhabitants with the help of a Lunar Eclipse.
History cites guns, germs, and steel as the reason for colonial domination, often leaving out the niche importance of astronomy.
Columbus was on his fourth voyage and starving
In early 1504, Columbus and his men found themselves stranded, with no means to feed or protect themselves.
This was Columbus’s fourth and final voyage to the New World. Understanding their situation, he forbade his crew from leaving their now-beached ships.
His crew eventually defied his orders and went inland into Jamaica. There, they would torment and abuse the indigenous population.
The people of Jamaica rightfully grew tired of their rude guests and cut off all trade with Columbus and his starving crew.
Columbus had to think fast, otherwise, he would be condemned to a slow death in this unknown land.
A Blood Moon sent by God
Having to think fast, Columbus concocted a plan to secure himself and his crew the resources they needed to survive.
Luckily for him, he had Abraham Zacuto’s Almanach, which provided a detailed understanding of celestial cycles.
Columbus knew there would be a lunar eclipse on March 1st, 1504.
Using this information, he requested a meeting with the native chiefs. Upon meeting, he expressed how the way his crew was treated angered his god.
