- The English were not the first Europeans to reach America; Vikings arrived in the 11th century, followed by Columbus for Spain in 1492 and the French in 1524. The first English presence was significant because it led to the thirteen colonies that became the United States.
- In April 1585, Sir Walter Raleigh, under Queen Elizabeth I, sent an expedition of seven ships with 600 men, half soldiers, to establish an English colony in North America as a base for privateering against Spanish treasure fleets, led by his cousin Sir Richard Grenville.
- In July 1585, the fleet reached Roanoke Island off Virginia’s coast. After building a fort, colonists met the Aquascogoc tribe, who showed little interest in relations. When a silver cup went missing, the English blamed the tribe, leading to conflict and the burning of their village; the English held their fort against subsequent attacks.
- Despite winning battles, the colonists suffered from hunger and hardship because they were mostly soldiers and adventurers, not farmers, and missed comforts from England. Disappointed by the lack of gold or silver, Grenville left to raid Spanish ships, and the colony was gradually abandoned.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of 4th grade summarizing worksheet.
