Before Columbus: The Americas of 1491
not part of a series
What’s inside...
This study of Native American societies is adapted for younger readers from Charles C. Mann's best-selling 1491. Turning conventional wisdom on its head, the book argues that the people of North and South America lived in enormous cities, raised pyramids hundreds of years before the Egyptians did, engineered corn, and farmed the rainforests. A companion book for young readers based on 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus, the groundbreaking bestseller by Charles C. Mann.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-13
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What were some of the surprising things you learned about the Americas before 1491?
Why do you think it's important to know about these civilizations that existed before Columbus?
How do you think the societies described in the book compare to our world today?
What part of the book did you find most interesting or unexpected, and why?
If you could meet someone from one of the civilizations discussed in the book, what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by sharing your own favorite parts or insights from 'Before Columbus: The Americas of 1491' to demonstrate your interest. Encourage your child to think about how history is told and whose perspectives are often highlighted or omitted. Connect the conversations to current world events or societal structures when possible, to make the discussion relevant. Let your child's questions guide the conversation, showing that their thoughts and queries are valuable. Finally, consider exploring more about this topic together, perhaps through documentaries or virtual museum tours, to deepen the learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of cultural diversity
Explanation: The book details the advanced societies and rich cultures that existed in the Americas before Columbus' arrival. It highlights the achievements and ways of life of various indigenous peoples.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and respect cultures different from their own, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Historical perspective
Explanation: By exploring the Americas pre-1491, the book challenges the conventional narrative that history only began upon European arrival. It acknowledges the deep histories of other civilizations.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of considering multiple perspectives and understanding that history has many narratives, which can help them analyze and appreciate different viewpoints in school and beyond.
Example Lesson: Environmental stewardship
Explanation: The book discusses how indigenous peoples cultivated and managed the American landscapes sustainably. It illustrates their profound connection with nature.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to adopt practices that protect and respect the environment, understanding their role in preserving the planet for future generations.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: Through its exploration of pre-Columbian America, the book prompts readers to question and analyze the commonly accepted facts and encourages a deeper investigation into historical events.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop a habit of seeking out information and thinking critically about the sources and content of the knowledge they receive. This is a fundamental skill in academic settings and everyday decision-making.