“For this purpose I determined to keep an account of the voyage, and to write down punctually every thing we performed or saw from day to day, as will hereafter appear.”
- August 25th to October 31st, 1451 – May 20th, 1506
- Born in the Republic of Genoa (now Italy)
- Explorer and navigator
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Quote
“For this purpose I determined to keep an account of the voyage, and to write down punctually every thing we performed or saw from day to day, as will hereafter appear.”
Explanation
In this quote, Christopher Columbus reveals his intent to document his journey meticulously. By stating that he planned to “keep an account of the voyage,” he emphasizes the importance of recording the details of the expedition, not only for the sake of posterity but also to provide a detailed historical record of his achievements. This sense of documentation reflects Columbus’s recognition of the significance of his journey—not only as a personal and royal endeavor but as a milestone in the broader context of European exploration. His determination to record “every thing we performed or saw from day to day” highlights his awareness of the importance of accurate and detailed accounts, which would later serve as a chronicle of discovery.
The practice of keeping such records was crucial during the age of exploration, as written accounts were often the primary means by which explorers could communicate their findings to monarchs, scholars, and the general public. Columbus’s journals became key documents in shaping the historical narrative of his voyages. They provided insights into the challenges and triumphs of the journey, as well as the interactions between Columbus and the indigenous peoples he encountered. His writings thus contributed significantly to the historical record of European expansion into the Americas, influencing how these events would be perceived for generations.
In modern times, the idea of keeping a detailed account of one’s experiences has evolved into practices such as journaling, blogging, or even social media documentation. Columbus’s desire to record his journey reflects a timeless human impulse to leave behind a legacy and to capture significant moments. Today, many people still feel the need to document their personal journeys or professional endeavors, whether through written records, photographs, or videos. The underlying goal is similar: to ensure that one’s actions and discoveries are preserved for future generations, just as Columbus’s accounts became a part of world history.
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