Why was Balboa a bad person?

Answer 1

Vasco Núñez de Balboa is often criticized for his role in the European colonization of the Americas, which led to the exploitation and suffering of Indigenous peoples. He was involved in the enslavement of local populations and participated in violent conflicts to assert Spanish dominance. Additionally, his actions contributed to the spread of diseases that decimated Native communities. While he is sometimes celebrated for his exploration, the negative impact of his endeavors on Indigenous cultures cannot be overlooked.