1. Introduction to 8 th Grade U.S. History

2. Native Americans By 1400, between 1 and 2 million Native Americans lived north of Mexico Culturally, Practically, and Spiritually Diverse – Region – Language – Way of Life – Religion Disease killed large populations of Native Americans

3. How did geography influence the culture of each tribe?

4. European Exploration Routes to China/East – Overland Costly and long – Around Africa Efficient, but still long – Possible route across Atlantic Leads to interaction with Americas – Trade in goods, ideas, and DISEASES – Important themes: Gold, Slaves, land, and Missionaries Eventual forceful conquest of Americas – Spain, England, France, and the Netherlands (short-lived) establish colonies

5. Columbus and his Legacy Christopher Columbus was convinced that the shortest route to Asia lay to the west of Europe. – In 1492, he sailed the ocean blue! The Columbian Exchange – Brought new crops like potatoes and corn to Europe – Brought disease, technology, and horses to North America

6. European claims in North America North and South America were soon divided between various competing European powers Interactive Map

7. Forms of Imperialism Colony – A territory that an imperialist nation rules directly Protectorate – A territory that has its own government, but that government take orders from an imperialist nation Sphere of Influence – A territory in which an imperialist nation has exclusive investment or trading rights

8. Early English Settlement Jamestown (founded 1607) – Unprepared for life in Americas Came to make money, not survive – Semi-friendly relationship with local Natives Some trade for food occurred – Incredibly high death rate Starvation and disease/sickness

9. Settling Jamestown

10. Pocahontas Saves John Smith

11. English Colonies By 1733 the 13 colonies we know were formed – They were grouped into three regions They were formed for various reasons – Business profit, religious freedom, refuge from debt and oppression They were self-governing but supported by the British government (Salutary Neglect) – Colonists were English citizens who expected the same rights as citizens living in England