1. The Colonization of the Americas 1453—Last Crusade, Muslim control of Silk Road. Portugal & Spain seek new trade routes America has many natural resources, and lots of extra space for colonists Reasons for Colonization of the Americas 1.Close of the Silk Road 2. Europeans needed a new route to China 1.Close of the Silk Road 2. Europeans needed a new route to China

2. 1492 – Christopher Columbus (Spain) sails west for Asia, “discovers” a New World Spain controls most of the Americas in 1500s 1588 – Spanish Armada fails to conquer England. England becomes major power in North America (controls the seas)

3. Characteristics of the English Colonies Southern Colonies: 1.Warm climate 2.Cash Crops (Agriculture) 1.Tobacco 3.Plantation System/Slavery **Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Georgia New England Colonies: 1.Cooler climate 2.Manufacturing/Trade/ Shipping 3. Religion more important **Plymouth, Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire

4. Middle Colonies: 1.More diverse 2.Trade/Shipping 3.A little bit of New England/Southern colonies **New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware

5. Wrap-Up Questions 1.What were some reasons for the colonization of the Americas by Europeans? 2.Why did England eventually become the major power in North America? 3.What are some characteristics of the Southern, New England, and Middle colonies?