2.1-2.2

European Exploration (1491-1607)

A period dominated by Spanish exploration in the Americas.

Colonization (1607-1754)

Transition from exploration to the establishment of colonies in North America by various European powers.

British Colonies

The establishment of 13 colonies along the Atlantic coast, primarily by the British, from Canada to the Caribbean.

Jamestown and Plymouth

The first two successful British colonies in North America, serving as the foundation for future colonies.

Economic Systems

Each colony developed its own economic and cultural systems based on environmental conditions and settlement patterns.

Transatlantic Trade

Important for the colonies, with key products including tobacco, timber, and rice, leading to strong ties with Great Britain.

Native American Relations

Early contact involved trade, but Europeans often treated Native Americans as inferiors, leading to competition for resources.

Sources of Labor

Europeans initially tried to enslave Native Americans, then used indentured servants, and eventually imported enslaved Africans for labor.

Migration Influences

Environmental factors influenced migration patterns and had lasting impacts on the Americas' society.

Spanish Colonies

Developed slowly due to limited resources and resistance from Native Americans, with St. Augustine as the first permanent settlement.

French Colonies

Primarily focused on the fur trade, with key settlements like Quebec and New Orleans, relying on trade with Native Americans.

Dutch Colonies

Established through exploration, with a focus on trade networks and settlements like New Amsterdam, later New York.

British Colonization

Driven by population growth and economic opportunities, with a higher percentage of families and a focus on farming compared to other European settlers.