Question

What is the meaning of the term pre-columbian?

A. Before the discovery of the Americas by Native Americans.
B. Before the establishment of the Columbian Exchange.
C. Before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas.
D. Before the colonization of the Americas by European powers.

Answer 1

The term pre-Columbian refers to the period in the Americas before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. It encompasses the time when indigenous people developed various sophisticated cultures. Alternative terms like pre-Hispanic or ancient Americas are sometimes used.

Thus, the correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term pre-Columbian refers to the period in the Americas before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. It encompasses the time when indigenous people inhabited the Americas and had developed various sophisticated cultures such as the Aztec, Maya, and Inka.

However, the term is seen as problematic because it focuses on a European invader rather than the diverse indigenous cultures. Alternative terms like pre-Hispanic or ancient Americas are sometimes used to describe this period.

Therefore, the correct option is C. Before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas.