BTW...as to Columbus, I do wish to acknowledge that many in his time did NOT believe in a flat earth.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flat_Earth (very long article tracing most of the beliefs from ancient times up to today)

However, there were many who DID still claim a flat earth, based on literal readings of the Bible.

I'm sure that Columbus was aware of the idea, whether he believed it or not. In any case, it's not crucial to the point I was making about 'common wisdom' and actual fact.