- The first people to arrive in the Americas were Paleo-Indians, who crossed the Bering Land Bridge from Asia more than 15,000 years ago.
- These early Americans spread throughout the continent and developed a variety of cultures, including the Anasazi, Hohokam, and Mississippian cultures.
Europeans
- The first Europeans to arrive in the Americas were Norse explorers, who reached Newfoundland around the year 1000 CE.
- However, it was not until the 16th century that Europeans began to settle in the Americas in large numbers.
- The Spanish, French, English, and Dutch established colonies along the Atlantic coast, and their descendants formed the basis of the American population.
Africans
- Africans were brought to the Americas as slaves starting in the 16th century.
- The majority of African slaves were brought to the United States, where they formed a significant part of the population.
- African Americans have made major contributions to American culture and society.
Other Ancestors
- In addition to Native Americans, Europeans, and Africans, the ancestors of Americans also include people from Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
- The United States is a melting pot of many different cultures, and its population reflects this diversity.