Chapter 2 European Exploration and Colonization Packet

Chapter 2: European Exploration and Colonization
Theme: In the late 1400's, Europeans in search of trade sailed across the Atlantic Ocean and
made contact with the Native Americans. Soon Spain and other countries established settlements in the
Americas. The Europeans also began to bring enslaved Africans there. Over time, Native American,
European, and African peoples and cultures interacted to form a new way of life. By the late 1600's, the
nations of Europe were competing for the newfound wealth in the Americas. The Spanish, French,
Dutch, and English had each staked a claim in the new lands.
Objectives: At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
• Explain the motivations for European exploration and colonization.
• Outline the technologies and factors that made it possible for Europeans to begin exploring.
• Scrutinize the different historical perspectives taken on the voyages of Christopher Columbus
and appraise whether or not his actions and legacy should be celebrated.
• Identify and describe the areas explored and colonized by the Portuguese, Spanish, French,
Dutch, and English.
• Account for the fall of the Aztec and Inca civilizations at the hands of the Spanish.
• Examine and describe the different positive and negative effects of European exploration and
colonization on Europe, North America, South America, and Africa.
Chapter Outline:
1. Introduction
2. Columbus: Hero or Villain
3. Europeans Look Overseas: Motivation & History
4. Portuguese and Spanish Explorers
5. Conquistadors
6. French and Dutch Explorers
7. English Explorers
8. Review and Exam
Probable Time Frame: 2 weeks, Test is scheduled for
Next Unit: The English Colonies
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