Christopher Columbus

Burning Spear's song 'Christopher Columbus' is a powerful critique of the historical narrative that credits Christopher Columbus with the discovery of Jamaica. The song's repetitive and emphatic lyrics serve to dismantle this widely accepted myth, asserting that Columbus was not the first to discover the island. Instead, Burning Spear highlights the presence of the Arawak Indians and African people who were already there long before Columbus's arrival. This perspective challenges the Eurocentric view of history and calls for a recognition of the indigenous and African contributions to Jamaican heritage.

The song's refrain, 'Christopher Columbus is a damn blasted liar,' is a bold and direct accusation that underscores the artist's frustration with historical inaccuracies. By repeating this line, Burning Spear emphasizes the importance of correcting these falsehoods and reclaiming the true history of Jamaica. The mention of the 'Twelve Tribe of Israel' and the longing to return home within a 'Red, Green, and Gold Robe' further ties the song to Rastafarian beliefs and the broader struggle for African diaspora identity and repatriation.

Burning Spear, a prominent figure in reggae music, uses his platform to address social and political issues, often drawing on Rastafarian themes. His music is characterized by its deep, spiritual messages and its call for justice and equality. 'Christopher Columbus' is a prime example of how Burning Spear uses his art to educate and inspire, urging listeners to question historical narratives and seek the truth. The song is not just a critique of Columbus but a broader commentary on the erasure of indigenous and African histories and the need for their recognition and celebration.