what was the attitude of Europeans towards the American Indians that they encountered
The attitude of Europeans towards the American Indians they encountered varied widely depending on the specific circumstances and individuals involved. It is important to note that Europeans did not have a singular attitude or perspective towards Native Americans, as different explorers, settlers, and colonizers held differing views and interacted with Native Americans in diverse ways.
While some Europeans expressed curiosity and respect towards the indigenous peoples, others held prejudiced beliefs rooted in cultural superiority and religious beliefs. Many Europeans perceived Native Americans as "savages" because their cultures, customs, and technologies were different from their own. Some Europeans saw Native Americans as obstacles to be overcome in their pursuit of land, resources, and wealth.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the attitudes of Europeans towards Native Americans, it is advisable to study primary sources such as accounts written by European explorers, settlers, and missionaries. These firsthand accounts provide insight into the various perspectives and interactions between Europeans and Native Americans. Additionally, studying historical and anthropological research on the topic can offer a more complete picture of the complexity of this relationship.