1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created

Mann is a white American journalist and author, educated at Amherst College. How might his background influence the framing of his analysis of the Columbian Exchange? How might an Asian, African, or Indigenous American tell this story? Do you think race, class, and educational background influence his framing of the story? Would a different framing of the Columbian Exchange be any more or less accurate, or would it simply be a different way of telling the story? Reference specific parts and passages from Mann’s text in your response.

Teaching Suggestion: This prompt asks students to synthesize and apply information gained not only from Mann’s book but also from their own experience of the world and from the various pre-reading resources they were offered earlier in the guide. Because there is no “right” answer to this prompt, students should focus on effective, clear reasoning. The prompt touches on issues of race, class, and nationality; students might hold an inclusive, sensitive conversation about these topics, or they might write answers individually.

Differentiation Suggestion: Because this prompt requires the synthesis of various sources, students who benefit from support with organization or attention may find it helpful to create a graphic organizer to order their thoughts before responding.