Native Americans and European Colonialization

Christopher Columbus lands in the New World

Oct 12, 1492

The first person to discover the New world, and the Natives that inhabit it.

End of Aztecs

Apr 25, 1519

Hernando Cortés conquers the Aztec empire.

First Colony established

Apr 25, 1565

The first permanent European colony in North America is founded at St. Augustine (Florida) by the Spanish.

First English child born in America

Aug 18, 1587

The first English child, Virginia Dare, is born in Roanoke, August 18.

Jamestown is established

Apr 25, 1607

Jamestown is founded in Virginia by the colonists of the London Company and John Smith. They were seeking gold. By the end of the year, starvation and disease reduce the original 105 settlers to just 32 survivors. Capt. John Smith is captured by Native American Chief Powhatan and saved from death by the chief's daughter, Pocahontas.

Beginning of trade from the New World

Jan 25, 1608

In January, 110 additional colonists arrive at Jamestown. In December, the first items of export trade are sent from Jamestown back to England and include lumber and iron ore.

Tobacco is planted

Apr 25, 1609

Native tobacco is first planted and harvested in Virginia by colonists.

First Trading post is established

Apr 25, 1613

A Dutch trading post is set up on lower Manhattan island

Peace between Natives and English

Apr 25, 1614

Pocahontas, daughter of Powhatan, marries tobacco farmer, John Rolfe, which helps establish temporary peace between the Powhatans and the English.

Tobacco becomes big

Apr 25, 1616

Tobacco becomes an export staple for Virginia.

The decline of the Natives

Apr 25, 1616

A smallpox epidemic decimates the Native American population in New England.