23 American History Questions Most Americans Get Wrong

6. What were the names of Columbus’ ships?

Correct: the Santa Maria, the Santa Clara, and unknown
Incorrect: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria

The Santa Maria was indeed the name of a ship, although the crew called it La Gallega, after the province where it was made, Galicia. The second ship was Santa Clara, but it was nicknamed Niña because it was owned by a man named Juan Niño.

Last but not least, the third ship wasn’t officially called the Pinta, but that was the name given to it by saucy sailors who, according to History.com, were influenced by the Spanish word for “painted one” or “prostitute.” The ship’s original name has been lost in history.