Hundreds, even thousands, of years before Europeans arrived in North America, American Indians had made their homes here. These many groups adapted to the varied lands and climates of what would later become the United States. Each group developed its own culture and history.

When settlers from Britain, France, Spain, and Russia arrived, the newcomers interacted with American Indians in different ways. Some engaged in trade, while others tried to enslave American Indian peoples or to take over their territories. Many conflicts arose as the different groups fought over land and resources. The colonization of their land changed the lives of American Indians forever.

Explore the history of the many American Indian peoples who predated the United States. Track the important events and turning points that shaped their cultures both before and after the arrival of European explorers, traders, and colonists.