The Geography of the Early Colonies


US History European Colonization The Geography of the Early Colonies
Students learn the locations of the Spanish, French, British, and Dutch colonies in the seventeenth century. They explore how the geography affected each group of colonies. Finally, they consider what factors they would weigh if they were to settle in a new colony.

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Overview

In this experience, students learn the locations of the Spanish, French, British, and Dutch colonies in the seventeenth century. Then they explore how the geography affected each group of colonies. Finally, they consider what factors they would weigh if they were to settle in a new colony.

Objective:

  • Identify how physical characteristics influenced population distribution and settlement patterns during colonization.


You have learned about the motivations that led the European explorers to go on their expeditions. Once the vastness and resources of the New World became known back in Europe, there were tradesmen and colonists who wanted to go settle the land. What did they find when they arrived? In this experience, you will examine the four largest colonial powers in what was to become the United States, and you will learn about the geography of each colony.

Objective:

  • Identify how physical characteristics influenced population distribution and settlement patterns during colonization.
Individuals and families move for many reasons. Maybe your own family has moved to your current town from a different country, state, or town.


A half-loaded moving van

In the word cloud, list one or more reasons that people might move to your town. Use a word or short phrase, like this: apples, citrus fruit.

Post your answer

Now imagine it is the early 1600s, and you are leading a group of colonists to the New World. When deciding where to settle, what are some things you might look for that would help your new colony?


In the word cloud, list one or more things you might look for when deciding where to settle.

Post your answer

Answers might reflect the geography of the location, such as moderate climate, good soil, access to water, trees, and other natural resources. They may also mention friendly tribes of Native Americans.

In the experience “European Exploration of the Americas,” students focused on why the Europeans explored new frontiers, i.e., why people move. The focus of this experience is where the European colonists settled.


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