Rather than using research to develop a clearly defined argument on a topic and then defending that
argument, you will insert yourself into history and consider it from the inside using the class material
we’ve covered along with your own additional research. Assume the identity of a fictitious person from
a historical context since 1500 and create narrative journal entries that describe your experience. In
effect, you will be creating a counterfeit primary source.
Instructions
- Choose an avatar – below are a few suggestions, but the possibilities are nearly endless:
a. Spanish navigator 1507
b. Aztec in Tenochtitlan 1525
c. Woman in Ming China 1650
d. Italian man 1550
e. Japanese soldier 1942
f. Artist in Germany 1517 or 1617
g. Montana logger 1910
h. African American in Topeka KS 1954
- Write 6-8 pages in the form of journal entries on behalf of your character
a. Name your avatar after yourself or choose a historically suitable character name
b. Gender your avatar in a way that is historically fitting
c. Choose a cultural or racial identity that is historically fitting and that interests you
Questions to consider
•Which details can I use to distinguish the period I’m discussing from others we’ve studied?
•How could this journal be an excellent primary source for educating historians in the future?
•Is it useful to discuss what I and others are wearing?
•Was I born here? If not, why and how did I get here?
•What do I eat? What do I do for a living? How do I worship?
•Which side am I on if there’s a debate, conflict, or battle involved?
•How old am I, and how has my world changed during my lifetime?
•Am I literate, or is someone writing this journal on my behalf?
Journal Entries of Isabella Montoya: A Spanish Navigator in 1507
Entry 1: June 1, 1507
Today marks the beginning of a great adventure as I set sail on the magnificent ship, Santa Maria, as part of an expedition led by Juan Ponce de León. Our mission is to chart new territories and seek riches in the name of Spain. The anticipation is palpable among the crew as we leave the shores of Seville behind. I am Isabella Montoya, a skilled navigator, and I am honored to be part of this historic voyage. The sea beckons, and I cannot wait to uncover the mysteries that lie ahead.
Entry 2: June 15, 1507
After days of sailing across the vast Atlantic Ocean, we have spotted land on the horizon. The excitement onboard is overwhelming as we approach a lush and verdant landmass. Our captain believes we have discovered a new territory, which we have named La Florida. The beauty of the landscape is awe-inspiring, filled with vibrant flora and fauna that are entirely unfamiliar to us. I cannot help but marvel at the wonders of this uncharted world.
Entry 3: July 3, 1507
We have established a small settlement along the coast of La Florida, laying claim to this newfound land in the name of Spain. Our interactions with the indigenous people, the Timucua, have been mostly peaceful. I am struck by their rich culture and way of life. The language barrier poses challenges, but we are making efforts to communicate and understand each other. As a navigator, my role is crucial in mapping the coastline and exploring further inland.
Entry 4: August 10, 1507
A sense of unease has settled over our settlement as rumors circulate about mythical fountain of youth in these lands. Some of our crew members have become obsessed with finding it, believing it holds the key to eternal youth and riches. While I understand their fascination, I remain cautious. Our primary goal should be to establish trade routes and foster peaceful relations with the indigenous peoples, not to chase legends.
Entry 5: October 20, 1507
Conflict has erupted between our expedition and the Calusa tribe, a fearsome warrior people who fiercely defend their territory. Our settlement has been attacked, and lives have been lost. It saddens me deeply to witness such violence, as I believe in diplomacy and understanding. We must find a way to coexist peacefully. I hope that our presence here can eventually bring progress and mutual benefit to both sides.
Entry 6: January 1, 1508
As the new year dawns, I reflect on how much has changed since we first arrived in La Florida. Our settlement has grown, and we continue to explore and map the surrounding regions. The challenges we face are immense, from treacherous terrains to disease outbreaks among our crew. But we remain resilient, driven by our determination to leave a lasting legacy for Spain and establish a foothold in this new world.
Entry 7: April 30, 1508
My time in La Florida has come to an end as I prepare to return to Spain. The experiences I have had here will forever shape me. I have witnessed the beauty of unexplored lands, encountered different cultures, and faced both triumphs and tragedies. As I bid farewell to this land that has become a part of my soul, I can only hope that future historians will find value in my journal entries. Through my words, they will gain insight into the challenges and complexities of early exploration and colonization.
Conclusion
Isabella Montoya’s journal entries provide a unique perspective on the Spanish exploration of La Florida in 1507. Through her eyes, we witness the excitement of discovering new lands, the interactions with indigenous peoples, the conflicts that arise, and the personal growth of an individual navigating through uncharted territories. This primary source offers historians a firsthand account of the triumphs and challenges faced by Spanish explorers during this period and provides valuable insights into the complexities of early colonial encounters.