The True Story of Christopher Columbus

When the Knights of Columbus was founded 130 years ago, their namesake, Christopher Columbus, was a symbol of the idea that there is no contradiction in being a Catholic and an American. In recent decades, however, Columbus has become a figure of controversy, leaving conflicting opinions about his legacy. Columbus is often dismissed today by people who want to blame him for everything wrong on these shores since 1492. Following that logic, though, he deserves some credit — and gratitude — as well, for the many good things that also followed his discoveries. Find out more about who the explorer really was.

Courage and Conviction

“Courage and Conviction: The True Story of Christopher Columbus” is a thorough examination of the life and legacy of the fearless discoverer of America. Narrated by actor Chazz Palminteri, this film provides insight into Christopher Columbus' remarkable genius as a sea navigator as well as his deep desire to bring all nations to Christ. Through expert interviews and archival footage, we look at the origins of Columbus Day and the symbolic role that Columbus has for Catholic immigrants, especially Italian Americans. Finally, the film addresses the current indictments against Christopher Columbus with boldness and exposes the motives behind the attacks of revisionist historians. Courage and Conviction shows why Christopher Columbus remains not only a man worthy of admiration, but a noble icon of what it means to be a Catholic and an American.

Why the Knights of Columbus?

For much of U.S. history, Columbus has symbolized civic unity and the hope of building an inclusive society

During the long summer of 2020, when scores of statues of Christopher Columbus have been vandalized or removed around the United States, it is important to remember why those statues were erected. How did Columbus come to be such an important figure in the popular imagination during most of the nation’s history? READ MORE.

Christopher Columbus and Fake History

Once the target of anti-Catholic sentiment, Columbus is often slandered by those who misrepresent his legacy

Driven in large part by political correctness and partisan academics and activists, it has become fashionable in recent years to criticize Christopher Columbus and the holiday named in his honor. A closer look, however, reveals the famed explorer to be a man of faith and courage, not a monster. READ MORE.

Five Myths About Columbus

Outrageous claims about Columbus need to be tempered by a sober look at the historical record

At a moment when even George Washington and Thomas Jefferson are under attack, it was inevitable that the current unrest would also engulf Christopher Columbus. His case is unique, though, because unlike the others, few people — least of all those who took turns stomping on his statues — know much about him. READ MORE.