1. How did the geographic setting of North America—including its relation to Asia, Europe, and
Africa—affect its subsequent history?

2. What were the common characteristics of all Indian cultures in the New World, and what were
the important differences among them?

3. What fundamental factors drew the Europeans to the exploration, conquest, and settlement of
the New World?

4. What was the impact on the Indians, Europeans, and Africans when each of their previously
separate worlds "collided" with one another?

5. In what ways might the European encounter with the Americas be seen as a disaster or tragedy,
and in what ways might it be seen as an inevitable development in the history of humanity with
long-run positive results.