[Dr._Joseph_Warren]

What other great men from American history can we defame for their actions that were the social norm of the time?

First off, he is not defaming these men by reporting the actual events and actions in which they participated or led. If it is true, then it is not slander.

Secondly, if we are to excuse their actions because it was 'the social norm of the time', then does that means we must also excuse men like Abu Musab al-Zarqawi because beheading infidels is their 'social norm'.

[Theoden]

The problem is that these actions and events cannot be proven, witnesses can't be taken as reliable sources, and is one-sided. No one will be able to prove what had actually took place accurately, and should therefore the Columbus that we know should be given the benefit of doubt.

Again, it does not matter whether Columbus did or did not discover America, what matters is what people perceive. I am sick of seeing everything I have been taught to be right and to believe in as good and to be proud of, being chipped away at by all of these modern sudo-historians. I especially take offense when it is American history being attacked.

As for social norm, it should be seen in the light of what behavior is condoned at the specific time of the actions taking place, by the greatest amount of people at that specific time. It is hard to explain, almost like being utilitarian. Terrorism in our time is not condoned, but slavery and murder of non-Christians at that time period was, unfortunately.