It starts with the fact that he didn’t discover America, there’s a certain level of irritation that comes from learning your teachers lied to you for years. Then he became a symbol for everything that’s happened to Indians, none of which is really his fault but as the “discoverer” he’s easy to blame. Add into that our modern fondness for applying modern morality to historical times and really he’s doomed. The funny part is people probably care more about him now than ever. Used to be Columbus was just one of those no mail days that rolled by without most folks paying much attention. Now it’s huge, mostly people complaining, but still a much bigger deal.
All white liberals who complain about Columbus should lead by example... and leave the U.S.A. immediately. Go back to Europe and hang with your new Muslim pals.