This document provides an overview of Native American groups in North America prior to European contact, including their similarities in diet, tools, and lack of writing systems. It then contrasts Native Americans with early Europeans, noting Native Americans had less dense populations and no wheels, ships, or large domesticated animals. The document goes on to summarize European exploration of North America beginning in the 15th century by Portugal, Spain, England and France, along with early colonization efforts by these nations. It outlines the establishment and growth of the original 13 colonies in North America through the colonial period.