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1492
Christopher Columbus lands in "New World"
Columbus, sponsored by Spain, sailed across the Atlantic hoping to discover a westward route to Asia but instead encountered the Americas. His voyages opened the door to European exploration and colonization of the "New World," expanding and altering global trade and beginning the Columbian Exchange, which allowed for the exchange of crops, goods, diseases, and ideas between the New and Old Worlds. -
English Settlement of Jamestown Established
English settlers established Jamestown in Virginia, the first permanent English colony in North America. The colony prevailed through disease, famine, and Native American conflicts with the help of the cultivation of tobacco. The settlement's success marked the beginning of European(specifically British) colonization in America, influencing the growth of English settlements and shaping future development. -
Mayflower Compact Signed
The Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower ship signed the Mayflower Compact, a contract establishing self-government for their Plymouth colony. The Compact agreed to create fair laws and govern collectively, marking one of the first steps toward establishing American democracy. It laid the foundation for self-rule in the future and contributed to the development of American political principles. -
End of King Philip's War
King Philip's War was a violent conflict between Native American Tribes and English settlers. Tensions over land and culture sparked widespread fighting. The war devastated both Native and settler populations but mainly ended with the weakening of Native resistance. The war reshaped the balance of power, leading to increased white expansion and the near-collapse of many Native communities in New England. -
British Victory at Battle of Quebec in French and Indian War
The Battle of Quebec was a pivotal turning point in the French and Indian War. British forces defeated the French, securing control of Quebec. This victory effectively ended French power in Canada and shifted the balance of power in North America to Britain. The loss of Quebec led to France ceding much of its North American territory in the Treaty of Paris. -
The Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris ended the French and Indian war, reshaping North American territory. France ceded Canada and all of its lands to the east of the Mississippi to Britain, while Spain ceded Florida to Britain and gained Louisiana. This expanded British territory significantly. The Treaty also marked the end of the French colonial power in North America. However, the British debt from the war increased taxes on American colonies, fueling tensions between Britain and its colonies.