How did we get the name "Americans"? Where did this name come from?

Factual Questions
1

Seeing that the most circulated history books in all the nations public schools all taught us as children that Christopher Columbus discovered America, shouldn’t we all be called “Columbians” instead of “Americans”?

I was once told that some dude named Amerigo Vespucchi came here way after Columbus did, and we somehow ended up being named after him (at least after his first name anyway). We were supposed to be named “Amerigos” but due to a typographical error, we were named “Americans” instead. What gives :confused:

2

Here is Cecil’s slant on things.

3

American? You mean you’re not called US’ers? :confused: :confused: :confused:

  • Rune
4

[Moderator Hat: ON]

This is not a Great Debate. I’m moving it to General Questions.

David B, SDMB Great Debates Moderator

[Moderator Hat: OFF]

5

Was that a joke?

6

[Moderator Hat ON]

To GQ.

[Moderator Hat OFF]

7

We didnt , you did.

sin

8

I get it… You mean ( U.S.) er’s

No , we just simply call ourselves “Americans”

9

Oops…forgot to add the smileys :smiley: :smiley: :wink: :cool: