S.O.A.P.

Source 

Who wrote the document?  

Christopher Columbus 

What is the author’s background/point of view?   

Christopher Columbus was born in Italy and was commissioned by Spain to find a cheaper route to Asia.

Whose point of view, given the topic, is 
missing?  

 

The Native Americans

Do you consider the source a reliable one on this topic?  Why/why not?  

No, because Christopher Columbus was most likely just looking to become rich or become a nobility, not to mention the fact that he thought he was in India but was actually in America.

Occasion  

When was the document written?  

 

1493

What does the date of the document tell you about its content?  

 

It was written on Columbus's ride back to Spain, he was writing to inform Luis de Santangel, a priest, how easy it would be to convert the natives to Christianity. 

 
What other historical events were going on during this time? 

 

 The Treaty of Tordesillas and Spain forced out all Islamic people.

Audience  

To whom is the author writing?

 

  Luis de Santangel

What type of document is this (diary entry, personal letter, public speech, 
etc.)?    

 

Personal letter

Does the private/public nature of the document inform you about its content 
(is the author sharing private thoughts, making a public pronouncement, 
etc.)?  

 

I believe that the letter is more formal than private but I do not think that he intended for it to get published that's why there arn't many personal opinions. 
Purpose 
Why was the document written?  What is the purpose of the document?

 

  to inform Luis de Santangel, a priest, how easy it would be to convert the natives to Christianity.

What is the document saying?  

 

 That the natives need to be converted, he also needs another reason for a second voyage.

Tone
What is the attitude of the speaker?

 

Very optimistic and exited for another chance to prove himself.   *but maybe the right way this time*