- 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, led by his cousin Sir Richard Grenville, to secure a base for attacking Spanish treasure fleets.
- In July 1585, the fleet reached Roanoke Island off Virginia, built a fort, and interacted with the Aquascogoc tribe. After a silver cup went missing, the English blamed the tribe, burned their village, and defended their fort against native attacks.
- Despite military success, the colonists suffered from hunger and hardship because they were soldiers and adventurers, not farmers, and missed comforts from England. Disappointed by the lack of gold and silver, Grenville left to plunder Spanish ships, and the colony was gradually abandoned.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of summarizing worksheet 5th grade.
