“Sailed this day nineteen leagues, and determined to count less than the true number, that the crew might not be dismayed if the voyage should prove long.”
- August 25th to October 31st, 1451 – May 20th, 1506
- Born in the Republic of Genoa (now Italy)
- Explorer and navigator
- He reached the Americas on his voyage in 1492 and is known as the discoverer of the “New World.”
Quote
“Sailed this day nineteen leagues, and determined to count less than the true number, that the crew might not be dismayed if the voyage should prove long.”
Explanation
In this quote, Christopher Columbus reveals a strategic decision to underreport the distance sailed during his voyage. By counting fewer leagues than the true number, he sought to prevent the crew from becoming discouraged if the journey proved to be longer than expected. This reflects Columbus’s awareness of the psychological pressures of exploration, particularly in the face of uncertainty and the unknown dangers of the sea. The decision to conceal the true distance suggests an effort to maintain morale and avoid panic among the crew, who were already facing the stress of being on an unfamiliar and potentially perilous voyage.
This quote highlights the human element of exploration, where the physical and mental well-being of the crew was as important as the navigational and logistical aspects of the journey. It also suggests a pragmatic leadership style, where Columbus felt it was necessary to control the perception of time and distance in order to keep the crew’s spirits high. The tactic of managing expectations through selective reporting can be seen as a form of psychological manipulation, aimed at inspiring confidence while shielding the men from the reality of the situation. The long voyage, with its inherent dangers and uncertainties, was already taking a toll on the crew, and Columbus’s decision to adjust the reported distance reflects a broader understanding of the mental strain involved in such epic undertakings.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the importance of leadership under pressure, especially in situations where morale and team cohesion are critical. Leaders often have to make difficult decisions about what to communicate to their teams in order to avoid panic or disillusionment, especially in high-stress environments. Today, this quote can be interpreted as a reminder that in situations of great uncertainty, perception management—whether through the manipulation of facts or through selective emphasis on certain details—can be an essential part of guiding a group through adversity. However, it also raises ethical questions about the truthfulness and integrity of leadership, especially when the long-term consequences of such decisions may later be revealed.
