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Early Native Peoples | Atlantic World




Early Native Peoples


In the late 1400s, Europeans launched a series of explorations that brought dramatic change to the societies and the ecology of the Western Hemisphere. The era of exploration was one of great daring and perhaps greater tragedy. This map illustrates the variety of routes, motives, and methods of exploration and conquest. It also highlights the extent of Native American civilization and in particular the three most powerful Indian empires in Central and South America and the cultural areas, languages, and principle subsistence patterns for Native Americans throughout North America.




1

Was the majority of exploration during this period done by one nation in particular? Why might that be?

2

Given what you know about the climate regions of America, is there any correlation between them and the subsistence of Native American peoples?

3

As you browse through the timeline, take note of the explorers who sailed around the Caribbean and Central America. Why might exploration of that region continue, while trips to the Canadian coast and New England seem to have stalled?


Atlantic World


In the 14th century, the Atlantic Ocean emerged as the stage for one of the most dramatic series of cross-cultural encounters in human history. This interactive map portrays the dramatic movement of peoples across the ocean as slaves, indentured servants, religious refugees, and adventurers.




4

Examine the patterns of slave trade. What trends can you discern from the map?

5

Examine the movement of free, indentured, convicted, and enslaved migrants. What trends are evident?

6

Examine the trade routes of the various nations. Then examine the Prevailing Winds and Pirate activity. What do these layers reveal about trade in the age of sail when juxtaposed?

7

Examine the paths of various explorers. Which countries dominated exploration early on? Where did they focus their attention and why?






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