Unit 1 Context for European encounters in the Americas (1491-1607)

Question 1

When Columbus reached the Americas, how did cultures vary?

Answer 1

Through geography and climate

• Humid : Sugar, forests, fertile soil for maize
• Dry: irrigation systems

Question 2

Describe Influence of the natural environment on the society and culture that various Native Americans had developed.

Answer 2

• Fewer people and simpler social systems
• Rich source of corn –> densely settled populations
• Men hunted and women collected crops
• Highly diverse languages

Question 3

Iroquois Confederation

Answer 3

In the 16th century through the American Revolution, they battled rival American Indians and Europeans.

Question 4

Protestant Reformation (religious motive for exploration)

Answer 4

Christians in Germany, England, France, Holland, and other European Countries revealed against the authority of the pope (protestant) in Rome.

Question 5

What were the economic motives for exploration?

Answer 5

European kingdoms wanted to increase trade with Africa, India ,and China

Question 6

What were nation-states?

Answer 6

Multiethnic empires that replaced small kingdoms in Europe. Common culture and central government.

Question 7

Treaty of Tordesillas

Answer 7

A line through country of Brazil that established Portugal’s claim to Brazil. Did not hold up.

Question 8

What supported and motivated European exploration and colonization in the new world?

Answer 8

Gain more wealth and spread Christianity