For the good of the holiday — hail Columbus

It’s time to give Christopher Columbus a pass.

Or, Cristoforo Colombo, as he was called 525 years ago, when he captained the sailing vessel Santa Maria and led the Nina and Pinta to the island of San Salvador in what is now known as the Bahamas.

In all, Columbus made four voyages to the “New World,” all in tiny wooden ships … and without the aid of GPS … or even MapQuest. He became governor of Hispanola and made his home in Santo Domingo, what is now the capital of the Dominican Republic.

He explored bravely, set up a government efficiently and – in later life – wrote eloquently.

These are all facts of historical significance. And, because of them, he is honored – both in America and Spain – to this day.

But, he also was a ruthless conqueror. Despite encountering mostly peaceful natives during his visits, he killed many and kidnapped others for use as servants. During his rule as governor he was accused of tyranny and there are accounts of cruel punishment for “crimes” as menial as suggesting Columbus was of “lowly birth.”

These are also facts and they are the basis of much of the modern day criticism of Columbus.

In all fairness, there are two sides to the ledger.

His work as an explorer is undeniable. Quite simply – against all odds – he changed the course of history.

His crimes against humanity are of the most heinous level … by today’s standards. But, 525 years ago, they were not even considered crimes.

Until the most recent chapter in world history – the last 75 years – all countries were established through conquest. And there is no such thing as non-brutal conquest.

The Egyptians enslaved the Jews. The Romans conquered the Gauls. In the 11th century the Normans conquered and occupied England. England then conquered and colonized much of the rest of the world, outside of Europe.

Even the establishment of the United States – the most free and democratic country in the history of the world – came at the expense of the defeat and capture of the entire Native American population.

As late as the mid-20th century, the Soviet Union conquered, then absorbed much of Eastern Europe as part of its communist dictatorship.

The “civilization” of the world has a bloody legacy.

Yes, the armies of Columbus were guilty of rape, torture and enslavement. At that time in history there was no army, carrying any standard, that wasn’t guilty of the same tactics.

To hale Columbus for the amazing accomplishments of 525 years ago, is a worthwhile practice.

Those solid facts of history should not be forgotten.

To criticize Columbus for the moral profanities of him and his army are also certainly worth a moment in modern time. But to tear down his statues, vandalize his monuments, erase his name from all public entities … that is an example of political correctness running amuck.

You cannot change history. It is even worse to try to erase it … or re-write it.

Columbus Day became a federal holiday in 1937. It still is celebrated in many locations. Boston held its annual event throughout the weekend. New York had a commemoration along Columbus Circle.

Philadelphia, of course, holds one of the biggest celebrations. Saturday’s Columbus Day parade in South Philadelphia, as always, was a festive affair.

Locally, there are a number of events. The 14th Columbus Cup Golf and Bocce Outing at Bellewood Country Club, near Pottstown, is an event put on by the Americans of Italian Heritage Council. It is an allday tribute to Italian music, food, heritage, wine and bocce – wrapped around a golf outing.

On Wednesday, the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Columbus Monument in Norristown will take place – with music, speeches, and a postevent feast, sponsored by the Elmwood Park Zoo and J.P. Mascaro and Sons.

Most people will take the time to commemorate an individual and his accomplishments – accomplishments that led to the founding of America.

A few will take the opportunity to smear his name – pointing only to the dark side of his personal history. Judging people from 525 years ago by the moral values of today is an exercise in futility. There is no real value to this attempt at moralistic time travel.

Instead, for the good of a much-needed holiday … Hail, Columbus.

Tony Leodora is president of TL Golf Services, host of the weekly GolfTalk Live radio show on WNTP 990-AM and host of the Traveling Golfer television show — as well as editor of GolfStyles magazine. He is former sports editor of The Times Herald. Send comments to tlgolfservices@aol.com.