Introduction
The colonization of America has been a point of historical interest for many years. While the colonization itself is familiar to most people, many are uncertain as to why colonists chose to come to America. This article aims to explore the historical context and motivations behind colonization, in order to provide clarity on this topic.
Historical Context
The colonization of America was influenced by a series of political, religious, and economic factors. There was a balance of powers in Europe which led to an environment of feudalist exploitation and feudal wars. Religious wars raged across Europe and the Protestant Reformation created a new sense of religious identity, with people no longer feeling beholden to the Catholic Church as before. The economy of Europe was unstable – there were high tariffs, strict monopolies, and taxes on trade, which incentivised people looking for an alternative or better life. As the New world remained relatively untouched by the machinations of Europe, the perceived abundance of land and resources acted as a strong motivation for Europeans to seek opportunities for settlement in the New World.
Land and Resources
The pursuit of land and resources was one of the key motivations behind colonization. European settlers believed that the abundance of resources in the New World would enable them to create thriving communities and businesses. This motivation was reinforced by the fact that in Europe, land was scarce, with many people unable to own their own property. The New World represented an opportunity for colonists to own land and build a new life for themselves. The vast lands available were one of the reasons the settlers of America could not have enough and continued to explore, conquer and settle in new areas.
Search for Freedom
Various types of freedom, including religious, political, and economic freedom, were highly sought after by colonists. In Europe, many people felt constrained by their governments or their societies and could not practice their faith openly. The New World allowed them to practice their religion without persecution or oppression. Similarly, the political freedoms enjoyed in America allowed people to participate in the formation of their government and own communities, without the restraints of feudalism or mercantilism. Economic freedom also played a role in drawing people to America. In Europe, there were high tariffs and taxes on trade, which meant that it was difficult for people to start their own businesses. In America, people were free to start their businesses without being held back by the monopolistic economies of Europe.
Adventure and Exploration
The idea of adventure and exploration was also a significant motivation for colonists. The journey across the Atlantic was risky and challenging, and many people were excited by the prospect of exploring the unknown. The sense of adventure attracted people who were looking for a new challenge or a new way of life. They wanted to explore the unknown, to find new opportunities, and to build something for themselves.
Familial Ties
Family ties played a role in the motivation of early colonists, with many people coming to America to join family members who had previously migrated. Social networks and community were also important in enabling the success of early settlements. Immigrants who could not yet fully submerge themselves in American culture were able to rely on family members and other members of their communities to help them settle in and adjust to their new homes.
Conclusion
The motivations behind colonization were multifaceted, with land, resources and freedom, adventure and exploration, and familial ties all acting as significant factors in why people chose to come to America. Understanding these motivations is critical to understanding the development of early American history. With the knowledge we gained, we see how colonisation and the Americas shaped the economic, social, and political landscape of the world.