Major Event/Epoch in American History Time Period/Date(s) Description and Significance of the People/Event(s) to American History
1) Describe three different American Indian cultures prior to colonization. 1200-1900 C.E. Great Indian societies such as the Aztec, Mayan, Inca, and Toltec would emerge. They had complex structures of government and built large cities. These cities would even be seen as impressive to the Europeans when they later arrived on the continent (Brands, Breen, Williams, Gross, 2012). The Aztecs were the most powerful of the Indians and expanded their empire as they conquered many other tribes all throughout what is now Mexico. The groups along the Atlantic coast were smaller in numbers and not as agriculturally advanced. These cultures were more peaceful and even had some democratic type qualities to them. Many of the Europeans first contact would be with these communities.
2) The effects of British colonization on the Native Americans. 1600’s Despite Columbus and other explorers going off to the New World, the British did not show any major interest until the late 1500’s. The most immediate effect of the arrival of British settlers was the issue of land. They were taking land and resources that were not their own. However with peaceful relations there was plenty of land for both early settlers and the Native Americans. Early contact between English settlers and Native Americans was not filled with hostility but was rather peaceful. Both parties were interested in developing trade. The peacefulness would not last for long. The English did not understand their customs and viewed them as savages. They felt the need to attempt to civilize them. They pushed their religion and customs on them but for the most part these customs were rejected. The Native Americans welcomed trade but did not want to change their way of life. As more English continue