Revolution in North America

The Spanish brought about social revolution to the Indians by introducing the horse to America.  The horse changed the entire way of life throughout the plains and Southwest. 

Once tribes who were stationary found that they could run with the buffalo on horseback, the food supply vastly increased, populations grew and inter tribal warfare soared.  Now tribes who were wanting would simply raid their neighboring tribes to get what they wanted.

Ironically the Spanish returned home empty handed but introduced a new wealth to the Indians of North America.

Early in the 1500s England and France began to explore the Northwest.  Late in the 16th century,
France and England officially intruded on Spanish territory in North America.  In 1562 Admiral Gaspard de Coligny lead 3 expedition of French Huguenots to Florida.  He was quickly driven out. 

In 1578, Englishman Sir Francis Drake sailed his Golden Hind through the straits of Magellan, looted Spanish shipping in the Pacific, and claimed California for his queen, but left no colony.

Next time...the frontier moves further west and north.

__________________________

Today in Pioneer History:  On July 29, 1588, Spain’s so-called “Invincible Armada” is defeated by an English naval force under the command of Lord Charles Howard and Sir Francis Drake off the coast of Gravelines, France.