Week 25
Colonization of America

The colonization of America marked a transformative period in world history, driven by European exploration and the quest for wealth, land, and power. Beginning in the late 15th century, European powers such as Spain, Portugal, France, and England established settlements, exploiting the rich natural resources of the Americas and utilizing indigenous labor and enslaved Africans. This process led to the profound disruption of indigenous cultures, the spread of European languages and religions, and the establishment of a global trade network. While it brought technological advancements and cultural exchanges, colonization also resulted in devastating impacts, including widespread disease, forced displacement, and systemic oppression of native populations, shaping the social, political, and economic foundations of the modern Americas.