First Europeans Settle in North America

Front

Who sponsored Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492?

Back

Spain

Answer explanation

Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492 was sponsored by Spain, specifically by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, who aimed to find a westward route to Asia.

Front

What was Spain's main goal in sponsoring Columbus's voyage?

Back

To find a new route to China

Answer explanation

Spain's main goal in sponsoring Columbus's voyage was to find a new route to China, as they sought to access the lucrative spice trade and establish direct trade links with Asia.

Front

Which European countries were the biggest contenders in colonizing North America? Options: Sweden, Norway, Denmark; France, Britain, the Netherlands; Italy, Portugal, Spain; Germany, Austria, Switzerland

Back

France, Britain, the Netherlands

Answer explanation

France, Britain, and the Netherlands were the primary European powers involved in the colonization of North America, establishing significant territories and trade networks, unlike the other listed countries.

Front

When did French efforts to colonize the Americas begin?

Back

1534

Answer explanation

French efforts to colonize the Americas began in 1534 when Jacques Cartier made his first voyage to Canada, marking the start of French exploration and claims in North America.

Front

Who founded the city of Quebec in 1608?

Back

Samuel de Champlain and Pierre Dugua de Mons

Answer explanation

The city of Quebec was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain and Pierre Dugua de Mons, who established it as a French settlement. Jacques Cartier explored the area earlier, but he did not found the city.

Front

Who were some of the first Europeans to encounter most of modern North America?

Back

The French

Answer explanation

The French were among the first Europeans to explore and establish settlements in North America, particularly in areas like Canada and the Mississippi River region, predating other European powers in significant encounters.

Front

What was the first British settlement in North America?

Back

St. John's

Answer explanation

St. John's, established in 1583, is recognized as the first permanent British settlement in North America. While Jamestown and Plymouth are significant, they were founded later, in 1607 and 1620 respectively.

Front

Which settlement is known as the 'lost colony'?

Back

Roanoke

Answer explanation

The 'lost colony' refers to Roanoke, an early English settlement that mysteriously disappeared in the late 16th century. Unlike Jamestown and Plymouth, Roanoke's fate remains one of history's great mysteries.

Front

What was the first permanent English settlement in the Americas?

Back

Jamestown

Answer explanation

Jamestown, established in 1607, was the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. Unlike Roanoke, which was a failed attempt, Jamestown survived and laid the foundation for future English colonies.

Front

Who helped the Pilgrims survive their first years in Plymouth?

Back

Squanto

Answer explanation

Squanto, a Native American, played a crucial role in helping the Pilgrims survive by teaching them essential agricultural techniques and acting as an interpreter, which was vital for their early years in Plymouth.