Early Period of Contact

Definition

The early period of contact refers to the time when Europeans first arrived in the Americas and interacted with Native American populations. This period began with Christopher Columbus's arrival in 1492 and continued for several centuries.

Related terms

Columbian Exchange: The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread exchange of goods, plants, animals, ideas, diseases, and cultures between Europe and the Americas after Columbus's arrival.

Encomienda System: The encomienda system was a Spanish labor system that granted Spanish settlers control over native laborers in the Americas.

Mission System: The mission system was used by European colonizers to convert Native Americans to Christianity by establishing religious missions throughout North America.