How does Columbus describe the governing structure of indigenous peoples in the *Letter of Discovery*? Complex monarchies Democratic systems No form of government Tribal councils

Columbus describes the governing structure of indigenous peoples in a rather simplistic manner, often portraying them as lacking formal governmental systems. He tends to emphasize their tribal lifestyles, suggesting that their social organization resembles a loose collection of tribes without complex political hierarchies. However, it’s worth noting that this depiction can overlook the sophisticated systems that many indigenous cultures had in place, which included councils and consensus-based governance. Interestingly, the views presented in the *Letter of Discovery* have sparked a lot of interest in historical debates about European perspectives on indigenous societies. Many researchers now focus on how these early accounts shaped policies and attitudes towards native populations, vastly influencing colonial strategies and interactions in the Americas. This misunderstanding facilitated the justification of colonization, leading to dire consequences for many indigenous communities.