- The English were not the first Europeans to reach America; Vikings arrived in the 11th century, Columbus for Spain in 1492, and the French in 1524. However, the first English presence was crucial as 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, partly to attack Spanish treasure fleets. His cousin, Sir Richard Grenville, led the expedition.
- 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. A missing silver cup led Grenville to blame the tribe, resulting in angry exchanges and the burning of their village. The English held their fort against native attacks.
- Despite military success, colonists suffered due to being mostly soldiers and adventurers, not farmers, leading to hunger and discomfort. They expected gold and silver but found none. Disillusioned, Grenville left for England to plunder Spanish ships, and the colony was gradually abandoned.
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