Why did European countries explore and colonize North America?

Spain colonized the Americas because they were searching for gold and silver. France colonized North America because of the large amount of furs they found there. The French traded with the Indians for furs, which they then took back and sold in Europe because people were willing to pay a lot of money for furs in Europe.

When did Europe begin to explore North America?

The first attempt by Europeans to colonize the New World took place around 1000 AD, when the Vikings sailed from the British Isles to Greenland, established a colony and then moved to Labrador, the Baffin Islands and finally Newfoundland.

What was the main motivation for European exploration?

Historians generally recognize three motives for European exploration and colonization in the New World: God, gold, and glory.

Why did Europeans explore the New World?

The three main reasons for European exploration of the North American continent were to find an alternative passage to China and the eastern trade markets, the exploitation of labor and resources in the New World, and the spread of European-style civilization.

When did the first Europeans come to North America?

European Colonization of North America The invasion of the North American continent and its people began with the Spanish in 1565 at St. Augustine, Florida, then British in 1587, when the Plymouth Company established a settlement they called Roanoke in present-day Virginia.

What was the history of the exploration of North America?

The history of North American exploration spans an entire millennium and involves a wide variety of European powers and uniquely American characters.

Europeans colonized the Americas to increase their power and influence over world affairs, as well as ease their hunger for gold, silver and other precious metals.