- Disease: Native Americans were decimated by diseases brought by Europeans, such as smallpox, measles, and influenza. These diseases spread quickly through the native population, which had no immunity to them.
- Warfare: Native Americans were also engaged in warfare with Europeans and with each other. These wars resulted in the loss of many lives and the destruction of native communities.
- Displacement: Native Americans were displaced from their traditional lands by European settlers. This process often involved violence and coercion. The loss of their land base had a devastating impact on native communities.