Who was Christopher Columbus? Celebrated for 'discovering' the Americas, and why is he so controversial?

Columbus Day, celebrated in the United States on the second Monday of October, commemorates Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. While historically viewed as a symbol of discovery and progress, Columbus’ legacy has become increasingly controversial. His role in the colonization of the Americas, marked by violence, enslavement, and the collapse of indigenous populations, has sparked debate.