Exploration and Settlement

Columbus lands at Hispaniola in the Carribbean

1492

Contact between Europeans and Native Americans was made. The expedition was landed in December.

Balboa "discovers" the Pacific Ocean in Panama

1513

Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Panama to the Pacific Ocean. Became the first European to see the pacific ocean.

Cortes conquers the Aztecs at Tenochtlan (Mexico City)

1521

Cortes wanted to take the Empire of Tenochtlan for Spain because he heard of the powerful Aztecs. Local Indians sided with Cortes to take down the Aztecs. Cortes also trained his army.

De Soto explores the region between Florida and the Mississippi River

1541

On an expedition to North America, De Soto discovered the Mississippi River. He was one of the first explores to ever discover the land.

First permanent English settlement is founded in Jamestown, Virginia

1607

Jamestown was Americas first permanent English founded. Many customs and beliefs are still part of U.S. heritage.

Mayflower Pilgrims founded Plymouth colony in Massachusetts

1620

First colonial settlement in New England. A group of 100 puritan separatist Pilgrims sailed on the Mayflower and settled in Massachusetts.

English settlers defeat Native American in King Philip's War

1676

Native Americans tried driving the English settlers from the land. A bloody uprising was led by the king. The fight lasted about 14 months

France claims the Mississippi River Valley and names it Louisiana

1682

Expedition was led by La Salle and 30 other Indians. La Salle claimed the land for France. The land was named after King Louis of France.