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The Map Center
@mapcenter.com

*rings doorbell* Hello! Columbus Day has a social purpose (celebrating Italian-American contributions to American history) but Columbus is probably the worst historical figure to be its figurehead. Do you have a moment to hear about Giovanni da Verrazzano?

Craig Harrington@craigipedia.bsky.social

Christopher Columbus was a bad person who is undeserving of historical honors and who also contributed literally nothing to the history of the United States of America. This might as well be a statue of the Easter Bunny.

22 reposts120 likes

Amanda Růžičková
@marvelish.me

It became a federal holiday in 1937 because the Knights of Columbus wanted a Catholic honoured nationally, not because he was Italian. It being framed as an Italian-American day didn't come until decades later, mostly in response to criticisms of him. Oct. is also Italian-American Heritage Month.

The Map Center
@mapcenter.com

-Verranzano actually visited territory that would become the United States. -It wasn't by accident. He wanted to go there and then went there. Because he was a decent navigator. -He made excellent maps. -He was a vanguard for empire but he didn't murder or enslave anyone (personally).

The Map Center
@mapcenter.com

His reputation was of great interest to Italian-American activists who elevated his narrative in the early 20th century to highlight Italian-American contributions to the US and combat anti-immigration sentiment.

The Map Center
@mapcenter.com

Verrazzano was killed (and maybe eaten?) by Indigenous people in the Caribbean and in ironic Catholic Saint fashion we should celebrate Verrazzano Day with barbecue and jerk-style recipes. Because it would be hilarious and delicious.

The Map Center
@mapcenter.com

Columbus Day is in early October so it's usually still nice out and it's a good time for a holiday. It would be a pity to lose this day off. It would, however, be the perfect time for a Verranzzano Day barbecue.