U  N  I  T  E  D     S  T  A  T  E  S      H  I  S  T  O  R  Y    1   -   U  N  I  T    1
Prior to the arrival of Christopher Columbus and other Europeans, the North American continent was home to diverse societies controlled by Native Americans. These societies developed a wide variety of social, political, and economic structures based on interactions with the environment and each other. After 1492, the contact among the peoples of Europe, the Americas, and West Africa increasingly transformed the world, creating what is known as the “Columbian Exchange.” By 1607, the first permanent English settlement was established at Jamestown, Virginia, marking the beginning stages of a new nation. 
Maize was a staple food in Native American culture.
Both the words "Cuyahoga" and "Ohio" come from Native American languages and the area we live in is rich in Native American history.  Find out more below:
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The Powahatan Indians are native to the geographic area known today as Virginia.  When English settlers land there in 1607, there is an important exchange that happens between the two groups.  We'll study Jamestown in a later lesson.  

    Powahatan Primary Source

    According to lines 4 and 5, the Native Americans have provided English colonists with which of the following: 
    Sourcing: Who is the audience of this speech? How do you know? 
    ​Close Reading: According to line 2, what have the Native Americans provided the colonists with?
    ​Close Reading: What kind of solution does Powhatan argue for? Cite evidence to support your claim. 
    Close Reading: Paying close attention to lines 1 & 2, how would you describe the tone of Powhattan while delivering this speech? How would you describe his emotional state? 

native culture

** Optional: Watch the video to learn about one beautiful part of Native culture.  Remember, each of the Native American tribes is unique and has its own culture and traditions.  This gives us a small glimpse into the beautiful culture of America's indigenous population. **