European Exploration of North America

• All Countries came to compete with one another.

The English• The English explored North America for these reasons:

– In search of sources of wealth (gold)– Convert Native Americans to Christianity– Claim land for England

• England saw the North American natural resources as means for gaining wealth and international stature. Explorers risked their lives for fame, curiosity, and pride for their nation.

• Explorers risked their lives for fame, curiosity, and pride for their nation.

• The English Colonial Era will start in 1607 with the first permanent settlement at Jamestown. This success will lead to the founding of 13 colonies in America.

The French

• The French explored North America for these reasons:– In search of a water route through the New World known as

the Northwest Passage (all three European countries were in search of a faster, cheaper trade route to Asia)

– A source of wealth through fur trade with the Native Americans

– To convert Native Americans to Christianity

• They explored Canada, the Louisiana Territory, and islands within the Caribbean; they eventually set up forts and settlements.

The Spanish

• The Spanish explored the North American continent for 3 main reasons.– To find riches (Gold)– To spread religion, or Christianity (God)– To expand their empire (Glory)

• They explored and eventually settled land in present-day Florida, Southwest United States, Mexico, and the islands in the Caribbean.

The Netherlands(Dutch)

• Trade with Native Americans