Preserve Columbus Day

I believe that Columbus was an important figure to the hisory of America. Despite that natives were already living in America, Columbus forged the path of continuos migration from Europe to the Americas in attempt to create a better future. This joining of cultures sparked by Columbus had set the foundation for what America stands for: a melting pot of people. Advocators of "Transform Columbus Day" argue that Columbus should not be a celebrated man because of his actions as a slaveowner and murderor, but it is important to understand that it was simply the culture ofthe time period to own slaves and act more violently to address certain situation. Of course I am no proponent of slavery and violence, but in this time period these actions were normal. It is the extraordinary courage and perserverance of Columbus's journey that should be the focus of celebration. Sailing out into an unexplored ocean is a heroic feat that must be acknowledged in some way shape or form. Being a holiday, Columbus Day recognizes his risktaking spirit for discovery and serves as a model for all Americans demonstrating what determination can accomplish.