Cause

Latin American Colonization Cause and Effect

INTRODUCTION:

As Europeans came, in greater numbers, to settle the land in the Americas, their presence had a tremendous effect on the native peoples who were living here. The Native people's life in the Americas provided much for the Europeans to use as well. Lets examine some of the effects of the exchange between native people and Europeans.

Food Exchange: Cause

Almost immediately, Native Americans and Europeans exchanged knowledge about food items.

Europeans to Natives

• Cattle
• Chickens
• Horses
• Pigs
• Sheep
• Sugarcane
• Wheat

Native to Europeans

• Chocolate
• Pineapple
• Potatoes
• Pumpkins/Squash
• Sweet Potatoes
• Tomatoes
• Tobacco

Food Exchange: Effect

Over time, the diets of both Native Americans and Europeans widened as a greater variety of food became available. Exotic items brought from the Americas, however, only strengthened the desire of European nations to colonize.

European Weapon Exposure: Cause

European settlers introduced the rifle. When they hunted for food or went to battle, the rifle allowed for enormous success.

European weapon exposure: Effect

Over time, the European weapons proved stronger and more powerful than Indian spears, bows, and arrows. The nature of hunting and warfare changed and Native Americans traded for European-style weapons when possible.

Introduction of Christianity: Cause

Spanish settlers hoped to convert Native Americans to Christianity

Introduction to Christianity: Effect

Over time, European settlers tried to change the religious lives of Native Americans by forcing them to be Christians. Not surprisingly, Native peoples resisted all efforts to covert them to Christianity. This sometimes resulted in conflict.

Introduction of European Language: Cause

Europeans brought with them their languages that were imposed upon areas each respective country colonized. Languages included: Spanish, French, Dutch, Portuguese, and English.

Introduction of European Languages: Effect

Over time, Native American languages disappeared from common use and European languages became widely used. Names of places still may retain Native names, otherwise the Americas have become continents that speaks European languages.

Interaction between Europeans and Natives: Cause

Trade was one important way the Native Americans and Europeans related with one another, and, often, both sides saw the benefit.

Interaction between Europeans and Natives: Effect

European settlers related differently to Native Americans. The Spanish generally wanted to control them. The French and Dutch wanted to trade. The English were generally satisfied to live side-by-side and were glad for whatever help they could get from the Natives. The English, however, were cautious and typically wanted to change Indian ways to match their own. In addition, diseases were spread by Europeans to their Native counterparts that Natives were not immune to.