Therefore, his arrival in the Americas was the start of a long period of success for Spain, when they made a lot of money by colonizing other countries all over the world. In fact, Columbus is viewed as a national hero. There is even a monument to him in Plaza Colón (a plaza named after him using his Spanish name, Cristóbal Colón, in a fancy neighborhood in Madrid). Spaniards also celebrate October 12 as the national day of Spain, because it was the day Columbus discovered the Americas. October 12 is also Spain's Armed Forces Day. If you were in Spain on this day, you'd see the Air Force flying over Spain letting out red and yellow smoke to mimic the Spanish flag and performing stunts. Other similar Spanish conquerers, or conquistadors, are also celebrated in Spanish culture. For example, Hernan Cortes, who also explored and colonized the Americas for Spain, is featured on the stamp that I used to send letters home to the United States. In other versions of history, Hernan Cortes was known for his brutal tactics against indigenous people, such as murdering leaders and stealing their wealth.
Overall, it was surprising how Spain and the United States have very different historical perspectives regarding the colonial period and its leaders from 1492 and the early 1500s. While both countries have holidays and statues related to Christopher Columbus, there is a shift away from celebrating him in the United States that I do not detect here. Spain views these early explorers as heros, gaining land and money for the country. Many others, including many people in the U.S., view this period of exploration as a period of exploitation (treating others poorly for gain).
