How did the arrival of Europeans impact your way of life long term? (Pages 691-692, 695-696 in the physical textbook) (Topic 16 Lesson 4, in the online textbook)
The arrival of Europeans had a significant long-term impact on our way of life. The most notable impact was the spread of diseases that were previously unknown to us, such as smallpox, measles, and influenza. These diseases decimated our population, leading to a significant decline in our numbers and altering the demographics of our communities.
Additionally, the arrival of Europeans also brought about changes in our social and political structures. We were forced to adapt to European systems of governance and land ownership, which often resulted in the loss of our traditional ways of life and territories. European colonization also led to the exploitation of our natural resources and the introduction of new crops and animals that had lasting effects on our environment and economy.
Overall, the arrival of Europeans fundamentally changed our way of life and continues to impact us to this day. We have had to adapt to new social, political, and economic systems while also grappling with the long-lasting effects of colonization on our communities and environment.