In the late 1400s, Europeans in search of trade sailed across the Atlantic and made contact with Native Americans. Soon, Spain and other nations established settlements in the Americas. The Europeans also began to bring enslaved Africans there. Gradually, Native American, European, and African peoples and cultures interacted to form a new way of life.

By the early 1600s, the nations of Europe were competing eagerly for wealth in the Americas. The Spanish built a large empire that spread over both North and South America. The French, Dutch, and English sought territory in North America. The English who settled at Jamestown and Plymouth brought with them traditions of political rights and freedoms.

Additional Activities

• "Why Study History?" Activity: Have students use the Internet to explore international foods. (See Teacher's Edition, page 63.)
  
  
• Check out the Student Internet Activities, which focus on early Spanish missions and the American Southwest.
  
  

Section 1: Europeans Reach the Americas

Section 2: Spain Builds an Empire

Section 3: Africans Come to the Americas

Section 4: Colonizing North America

Section 5: The First English Colonies