Tales From Aztlantis

Throwback Thursday: The Indians of God!

Oct 10, 2024

53:37

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Christopher Columbus & The Indians of God!

It has often been claimed that Christopher Columbus did not refer to the Indigenous people of the Americas as "Indians" because he thought he landed in India, but because he thought that they were "gente in Dios," or "people in God." But is this actually true? and what is the source of this controversial claim?

Your hosts:

Kurly Tlapoyawa is an archaeologist, ethnohistorian, and filmmaker. His research covers Mesoamerica, the American Southwest, and the historical connections between the two regions. He is the author of numerous books and has presented lectures at the University of New Mexico, Harvard University, Yale University, San Diego State University, and numerous others. He most recently released his documentary short film "Guardians of the Purple Kingdom," and is a cultural consultant for Nickelodeon Animation Studios.
@kurlytlapoyawa

Ruben Arellano Tlakatekatl is a scholar, activist, and professor of history. His research explores Chicana/Chicano indigeneity, indigenist nationalism, and Coahuiltecan revitalization. Other areas of research include Aztlan (US Southwest), Anawak (Mesoamerica), and Native North America. His work has appeared in the Washington Post, Mexicolore, and several academic journals. He frequently presents at historical conferences and has taught courses at numerous colleges & universities. He currently teaches history at Dallas College – Mountain View Campus.

Cited in this podcast:

“I Am Not a Leader”: Russell Means’ 1980 Mother Jones Cover Story

Christopher Columbus, The Journal of Christopher Columbus (during His First Voyage, 1492-93) and Documents Relating the Voyages of John Cabot and Gaspar Corte Real, trans. Clements R. Markham, Cambridge Library Collection (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2010).

David Wilton, Word Myths: Debunking Linguistic Urban Legends (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008).

George Carlin, Brain Droppings (New York: Hyperion, 1997).

Peter Matthiessen, “Native Earth,” Parabola: Myth & Quest for Meaning, Vol. 6, no. 1 (Spring 1981).

Peter Matthiessen, Indian Country (New York: Viking Press, 1984).