Colonization of the New World: Spain, France, England

Colonization of the New World: Spain, France, and England

Spain's Colonial Ambitions

Spain had three main goals: to spread Christianity, to build a powerful empire, and to acquire wealth. These are often referred to as the "3 G's": God, Gold, and Glory.

• God: Spain sent missionaries to convert the Native Americans to Christianity. They believed that Christianized natives would be more loyal, helping Spain establish authority.
• Gold: Spain sought resources like gold, silver, and other precious metals to exploit for their benefit.
• Glory: Spain aimed to build the strongest empire and dominate the New World.

England's Colonial Expansion

As the English economy weakened and social tensions rose between classes, colonizing the Americas seemed like an escape. Initially, the English sought to create a peaceful trade environment. However, as they realized the potential for profit, they became more aggressive and violent towards the Native Americans.

While battling against Native Americans to establish forts and ports along the coasts of present-day Virginia and the Carolinas, the British also increased their status as a world power through colonization, which was their primary goal.

France's Colonial Success in North America

France was another major power engaged in colonization. The French overseas empire succeeded in the North American region. In present-day Maine and Canada, French explorers established ports and colonies that based their lifestyles on fishing and the fur trade.

With a massive supply of fish along the northern coast and inland Canada, French fishermen prospered. They shipped tons of fish to France and developed trade with the Native Americans.

Conclusion

Of all the European nations that sought to colonize the New World, England, France, and Spain were the chief powers. All three were more focused on colonizing the land than on exploring it. They preferred peaceful negotiations with the Native Americans but were willing to resort to violence and seize land if resistance occurred.

Though each nation had its own goals, all three exploited opportunities to gain wealth and power in the New World.