How Did European Colonization Affect The Native American Culture

From the 15th to 19th century the European colonization affected the Native American culture in many ways, such as diseases, war, and enslavement. Many diseases such as smallpox and measles were the main cause of the decline in the Native American population more so than war. Although they seemed to destroy Native American culture, they also improved it by trade. The Native American way of life changed after trading with the Europeans. At first Native Americans wanted metal products, which they couldn't make themselves, such as axe-heads and knives. Later they realized the value of guns. Having guns and horses completely changed the way Native Americans hunted for food.

Also in the 15th century Spaniards and other Europeans brought horses
Under President Andrew Jackson, Congress passed the Indian Removal Act of 1830, which forced the Five Civilized Tribes from the east onto western reservations, primarily to take their land for settlement. The forced migration was marked by great hardship and many deaths. Its route is known as the Trail of Tears.

Conflicts broke out between U.S. forces and many different tribes. Authorities entered numerous treaties during this period, but later abrogated many for various reasons. Well-known military engagements include the atypical Native American victory at the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, and the massacre of Native Americans at Wounded Knee in 1890.

On January 31, 1876 the United States government ordered all remaining Native Americans to move into reservations or reserves. This, together with the near-extinction of the American Bison, which many tribes had lived on, set about the downturn of Prairie Culture that had developed around the use of the horse for hunting, travel and