What was a significant action taken by many Native Americans in response to European colonization?

Study for the AMSCO AP United States History Exam (APUSH) – Period 1. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Many Native Americans migrated to new places to escape European colonization as a significant response to the encroachment on their lands and way of life. This movement was often a strategic decision to distance themselves from European settlers who arrived with their claims to land, resources, and varying cultural practices that were drastically different from those of indigenous populations.

This migration could involve moving further into less populated areas, seeking refuge in territories claimed by other tribes, or relocating to regions that appeared less likely to be settled by the Europeans. It reflected a desire to preserve their cultural identity and autonomy in the face of overwhelming change brought about by colonization.

While some Native Americans did engage in trading extensively with Europeans, this was often a pragmatic choice to obtain goods and resources they needed, and it did not indicate a formal acceptance of European colonization. Similarly, establishing permanent settlements was not a widespread action taken by Native Americans, as many tribes were traditionally nomadic or semi-nomadic, focused on seasonal movements rather than permanent structures. The conversion to Christianity occurred for some, often influenced by missionaries, but it was not a widespread or uniform response among Native tribes. Overall, migration was a fundamental and strategic reaction to the threats posed by European expansion.

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