In the early 16th century, the European super powers, England, France and Spain decided to "broaden" their horizons. All three set sail in an attempt to further their power. But when they reached the shores of what is now known as Canada and Mexico what would they find? Would they find a land all ready occupied by a new and distinctly fascinating society? No, they found a land for the taking. These European "settlers" gave no regard to the native populations whom already occupied this vast land.
Scientists believe that the first settlers in the Americas came from Asia, perhaps 40,000 years ago. They were nomads—people wandering in search of food. Following animal herds, they crossed to North America over a land bridge. It had been exposed when the ocean receded during an ice age. The nomads quickly spread east and south, settling most of North and South America. Early Americans adapted to such places as forests, plains, and mountains. Their culture, or way of living, was formed largely by the environment—geography and climate.
First, early Americans hunted animals and gathered edible plants and nuts. Then, they settled down and began to farm. They learned about plant seeds, fertilized soil, planting times, irrigation (artificial supply of water), and the harvesting of crops. When farm families were able to produce surpluses (food to store and use in the future), they developed other skills—pottery making, basket making, and weaving. Settlements grew into villages. Some villages grew into cities. These large marketplaces and centers of religion and government became civilizations.
Five thousand years ago, hunter-gatherers moved into (1) the Finger Lakes and Lakes Champlain and George regions; (2) the Mohawk, Hudson, Susquehanna, and Genesee river valleys; and (3) the coasts of Long Island and Manhattan.................
