Launched centuries of European exploration and colonization of the American continent. European explorers made a connection to the Americas during the Age of Exploration, which sparked a wave of colonization that over the course of centuries changed the socio-political and cultural landscapes of the American continent. The interchange of goods, ideas, and civilizations between the Old and New Worlds defined this crucial time, influencing the development of history on both sides of the Atlantic.

The English made early attempts in the late 16th century to establish a permanent presence in the Americas with the Roanoke settlements. The first English attempt at a permanent and stable English settlement in North America. It failed. The second attempt, known as the "Lost Colony," in 1587, mysteriously vanished without a trace, leaving only the cryptic word "Croatoan" carved into a tree. This event gave rise to long-lasting rumors regarding the fate of the colonists.

Destroyed the Aztec empire, and the Spanish began to consolidate control over what became the colony of New Spain. With Tenochtitlan's collapse and the subsequent establishment of Spanish supremacy in the area, this event marked the pinnacle of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec civilization and the start of colonial rule in what is now Mexico.

War that pitted Native Americans against English settlers and their Indian allies. Paved the way for additional English settlements. King Philip's War had English colonists in New England against Native American tribes led by the Wampanoag chief Metacom (referred to as King Philip by the English). Tensions over territory, cultural disparities, and colonial expansion caused the battle, which resulted in extensive destruction, and a high death toll on both sides.

The first popular uprising in the American colonies. It was long viewed as an early revolt against English tyranny. A wealthy colonist named Nathaniel Bacon led the 1676 Bacon's Rebellion in Virginia. It was a notable rebellion that brought attention to social and economic difficulties in the area and protested the colonial government's alleged bias towards the privileged and Native American policies.