Wanderlust World Wanderlust World European nations initially gained access to North America through exploration and discovery voyages. By the 15th century, European explorers like Christopher Columbus and John Cabot had set sail across the Atlantic Ocean, reaching the Caribbean and North American mainland. These voyages paved the way for further exploration and colonization.
Treaties and Agreements with Indigenous Peoples:
Initially, European nations acquired land through treaties and agreements with the Indigenous peoples who already inhabited North America. Treaties like the Treaty of Tordesillas (1494) between Spain and Portugal divided the non-Christian world between these two powers, determining their respective areas of exploration and colonization.
Royal Charters and Grants:
European monarchs granted royal charters and land grants to individuals, companies, or groups to encourage exploration and colonization in the New World. For instance, England's King Henry VII granted a charter to John Cabot in 1497, authorizing him to explore and claim lands in North America.
Conquest and Warfare:
Some European nations gained land by conquering and subjugating Indigenous nations through military force or warfare. Conflicts over land, resources, and territorial control led to the displacement, subjugation, and even genocide of Indigenous peoples in many regions.
Purchase and Trade:
In certain instances, European nations purchased land from Indigenous nations or acquired it through trade agreements. The Dutch, for example, purchased the island of Manhattan from the Lenape people in 1626, establishing the settlement of New Amsterdam.