17th century

Definition

The 17th century was a period from 1601 to 1700 that marked significant transformation across Europe, the Americas, and Africa, especially in cultural interactions and colonial expansion. This century saw the rise of European powers establishing colonies, leading to complex relationships between Europeans, Native Americans, and Africans, influencing trade, culture, and societal structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 17th century witnessed the establishment of major colonies such as Jamestown in 1607 and Plymouth in 1620, which laid the groundwork for English settlement in North America.
2. The Atlantic slave trade intensified during this period, leading to the forced migration of millions of Africans to the Americas to work on plantations.
3. Cultural interactions flourished as European settlers brought new ideas and technologies while also adopting aspects of Native American cultures.
4. The period was marked by conflict between Native Americans and European settlers over land and resources, which often resulted in violent confrontations.
5. The development of triangular trade routes facilitated economic exchanges that shaped colonial economies and global commerce.

Review Questions

• How did the interactions between Europeans and Native Americans evolve throughout the 17th century?
  • Interactions between Europeans and Native Americans during the 17th century evolved from initial curiosity and trade to increasing tension and conflict. Early encounters often involved alliances for trade, but as European settlement expanded, land disputes arose. Native American populations faced displacement due to colonial expansion, leading to violent confrontations such as King Philip's War. This shift highlights how initial cooperation turned into competition over resources and land.
• In what ways did the 17th century shape the cultural landscape of colonial societies in North America?
  • The 17th century played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of colonial societies through the blending of European, African, and Native American influences. The Columbian Exchange introduced new crops and livestock that altered diets, while religious movements like Puritanism influenced social norms. Additionally, African traditions were integrated into colonial cultures due to the increasing presence of enslaved people. These interactions laid a foundation for a diverse colonial society with varying customs and practices.
• Evaluate the impact of mercantilism on transatlantic trade patterns established in the 17th century.
  • Mercantilism significantly impacted transatlantic trade patterns by prioritizing national wealth accumulation through regulated trade. European powers sought to establish colonies that would supply raw materials while providing markets for finished goods. This led to the development of triangular trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas. As nations competed for economic dominance, mercantilist policies intensified exploitation of resources and labor, contributing to the establishment of a global economy that would have lasting implications beyond the 17th century.

Related terms

Columbian Exchange:

The widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, and diseases between the Americas and the Old World following Columbus's voyages.

Mercantilism:

An economic theory that emphasizes the role of government in promoting economic growth through trade regulation and the accumulation of wealth.

Indentured Servitude:

A labor system where individuals worked for a set number of years in exchange for passage to America and eventual freedom.