1450-1650

Columbus sailed and came to the Bahamas were he named the people indians.

from Spain

epidemic devastates Native-American populations in many parts of south and central America, virtually wiping out some tribes and allowing for colonists to take over far easier.

French Adventurers explore the St. Lawrence River and name it

Spanish Explorers travel though southwestern US

English Settle in Jamestown. Puritans trying to find a "purer" state.

Virginia established the first colonial legislature

Plymouth colony founded. John Winthrop wanted to create the new society for the puritans as a city on a hill.

Connecticut founded by John Hooker

Roger Williams expelled from Massachusetts Bay colony and settles in Providence. Wanted a separation of church and state