STANDARD US1.4a

STANDARD US1.4a Exploration
The student will demonstrate knowledge of European exploration in North America and West Africa by a) describing the motivations, obstacles, and accomplishments of the Spanish, French, Portuguese, and English explorations.
Why did European countries compete for power in North America?
Major European countries were in competition to extend their power into North America and claim the land as their own. Motivating forces for exploration • Economic—Gold, natural resources, and trade • Religious—Spread of Christianity • Competitions for empire and belief in superiority of own culture	What were the obstacles faced by the explorers?
	Obstacles to exploration • Poor maps and navigational tools • Disease/starvation • Fear of unknown • Lack of adequate supplies
	What were the accomplishments of the explorations?
	Accomplishments of exploration • Exchanged goods and ideas • Improved navigational tools and ships • Claimed territories (see individual countries below)
What regions of North America were explored and settled by France, England, and Spain?
Regions of North America explored by Spain, France, and England • Spain – Francisco Coronado claimed southwest United States for Spain. • France – Samuel de Champlain established the French settlement of Quebec. – Robert La Salle claimed the Mississippi River Valley. • England – John Cabot explored eastern Canada. What regions were explored by Portugal? • The Portuguese made voyages of discovery along West Africa.