- European settlers believed they had a divine right to conquer, use, and exploit the land and its resources for their own gain.
- This mindset was often rooted in the idea of "manifest destiny," the belief that it was the colonists' destiny to expand westward across North America.
Land Use
- European settlers often cleared forests for agriculture and settlement, which disrupted natural ecosystems and caused deforestation.
- They also introduced European plants and animals that often outcompeted native species.
Interactions with Native Americans
- European settlers often saw Native Americans as inferior and a hindrance to their expansion.
- This led to conflicts, wars, and the displacement and extermination of many Native American tribes.
Pollution and Waste
- European settlers' activities generated significant pollution and waste, which adversely affected air and water quality and degraded natural habitats.
Technological Advancements
- The introduction of advanced technology, such as guns, allowed settlers to dominate the environment more effectively.
- However, these advancements also had negative impacts, such as increased resource exploitation and environmental degradation.
Resource Extraction
- European settlers extracted natural resources, such as timber, minerals, and furs, at unsustainable rates, leading to depletion and environmental degradation.