Sample Essay On European settlement of the America

- What role did religion play in the European settlement of the Americas? How did religion influence French, English, and Spanish attempts at setting up colonies, and what similarities or differences existed? Finally, which English colonies were the most inspired by religion and why?
Religion was definitely an important part in the settlement of the Americas. The Spanish enforced the Catholic religion in the Southern continent and to this day, there is a considerable presence of this religion. On their part, the English brought Protestantism and Puritanism to their Northern American colonies while the French did the same with Catholicism in their colony of Louisiana. The colony which was most inspired by religion in North America was Massachusetts where a strong Puritan presence led to an almost Unitarian religion.
- Two major areas of English colonization in North America came in the New England and the Chesapeake regions. Compare and contrast the reasons for the establishment of colonies in these regions. Be sure and address differences or similarities in Indian policy, religion, economic activities, and society.
The New England colonies were generally more open minded and liberal on the question of slavery whilst the Chesapeake Bay colonies were more economically minded and had no qualms about slavery which they used to quite a large degree. Both colonies differed on Indian policy with the latter being more intent on eradication whilst the former opted for negotiated settlements. There were also religious differences with the New England colonies far more rigorous in their Puritanism, whilst the latter were Protestant, but also very lax in their observance.
- Both Great Britain and France were very active in the eastern half of the North American continent from the early 17th century to the mid-18th century. In what ways were their approaches to colonization different from one another? Describe their rivalry for control of North America. How and why was Great Britain able to emerge victorious over the French after a century and a half of conflict? What impact did this have on the 13 British colonies?
Great Britain’s victory over France was undoubtedly due to its far superior navy and military tactics where the French failed miserably in several important strategic decisions. Britain’s knack for singling out areas where trade could be expanded also assisted them in establishing an important presence in areas such as Canada and the Hudson Bay. On their part, the French were successful in Louisiana as well as Quebec where a large proportion of French settlers expanded the country’s influence.
- The 13 British colonies declared independence from Great Britain in 1776, thus setting up the nation of the United States. What influenced this decision to declare independence? What kind of government was created in the United States upon declaring independence? Finally, how did the American Revolution lead to a social and economic changes in the United States?
The major push for Independence was the Boston Tea Party and the revolt against unjust taxes and tariffs which were being levied on the United States by Great Britain. The government which came after independence was achieved was a uniquely Republican system which has served as a model for others to follow. This government led to great social and economic change as the country expanded its borders, created new trade agreements with several other countries and vastly increased its own industrial production.