Social Studies Week 1

Social Studies this quarter will focus primarily on American history and civics (we have an election coming up after all!). This week: Pre-Columbian America, Colonial America

Some key early dates:

1565 - First permanent European settlement in North America - St Augustine, present-day Florida - founded by the Spanish. North America is already inhabited by several distinct groups of people, who go into decline following the arrival of settlers.

1607 - Jamestown, Virginia, founded by English settlers, who begin growing tobacco.

1620 - Plymouth Colony, near Cape Cod, is founded by the Pilgrim Fathers, whose example is followed by other English Puritans in New England.

17th-18th centuries - Hundreds of thousands of Africans brought over and sold into slavery to work on cotton and tobacco plantations.

1763 - Britain gains control of territory up to the Mississippi river following victory over France in Seven Years' War.

Read the passage and do the questions below or use your copy of the textbook. The reading is on page 36.

european colonization of north america.pdf

Click the arrow for answers

1=3

2=5

3=1

4=4

5=1

Reading: The Perspective on Columbus

The observance of Columbus Day has become controversial in recent years, but each Columbus Day, the President releases a statement. The following statements are from our two most recent presidents. See if you can determine who is responsible for each.


Two Different Presidents, Two Different Perspectives on Columbus Day

  1. "The permanent arrival of Europeans to the Americas was a transformative event that undeniably and fundamentally changed the course of human history and set the stage for the development of our great Nation. Therefore, on Columbus Day, we honor the skilled navigator and man of faith, whose courageous feat brought together continents and has inspired countless others to pursue their dreams and convictions — even in the face of extreme doubt and tremendous adversity."


  1. "As we mark this rich history, we must also acknowledge the pain and suffering reflected in the stories of Native Americans who had long resided on this land prior to the arrival of European newcomers. As we reflect on the adventurers throughout history who charted new courses and sought new heights, let us remember the communities who suffered, and let us pay tribute to our heritage and embrace the multiculturalism that defines the American experience."




Do some research: What interesting resources, websites, etc. have you found? Share them below!