Political Rivalries: Serving the King — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.3-5
D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. history reading passage explores the rivalries between Native Americans and European explorers during the Age of Exploration in the 1400s and 1500s. Students will learn about the motives of kings, the bravery of Native nations, and the causes and effects of European arrival in North America. The narrative highlights key events, such as the landing of Spanish explorers, their search for gold and glory, and the challenges faced by Native Americans. Key vocabulary words are clearly explained, and the passage is designed for foundational literacy and history skills. Activities include a timeline, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and a graphic organizer. The resource is aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, and features a Spanish translation and read aloud audio to support diverse learners.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Discovery of the Mississippi River by De Soto, May 1541" by Powell, George William, 1824-1879 / Library of Congress.

The Age of Exploration was a time when Europeans sailed across the ocean to find new lands. In the 1400s and 1500s, kings in Europe sent groups called explorers to search for riches and claim new lands for their countries.

Spain was one of the first countries to send explorers to North America. The Spanish king wanted gold, land, and power. He ordered men like Hernando de Soto to travel far from home. The explorers made promises to serve their king and bring back treasures.

Many Native American nations already lived in North America. They had their own leaders, villages, and ways of life. When Spanish explorers arrived, Native Americans watched them carefully. Some Native groups tried to be friendly, while others worried about protecting their land.

At first, exchanges between explorers and Native Americans were peaceful. They traded goods and learned about each other. But soon, rivalries started. The Spanish wanted to take land and find gold. Native nations wanted to keep their homes and families safe.

Conflicts began when explorers pushed into Native villages. Some explorers took land by force. Native Americans resisted. They used their knowledge of the land to defend themselves. Sometimes, explorers and Native nations made treaties or agreements. But these did not always last, and new rivalries grew.

The arrival of more explorers changed life for everyone. Native Americans faced new diseases, which made many people sick. They also lost land as explorers claimed it for their kings. Still, many Native nations showed bravery and worked together to solve problems.

One explorer wrote, "We came to serve the king and God, but found much resistance."

The Age of Exploration was a time of bravery, unity, and challenge. Native Americans and explorers both tried to protect their people. Their choices shaped the future of the land we now call the United States.

Interesting Fact: Horses were brought to North America by Spanish explorers. Native Americans learned to use them and became skilled riders.

Who sent explorers to North America?

European kingsNative American leadersAmerican presidentsAfrican chiefs

What did the Spanish king want?

Gold, land, and powerPeace and friendshipOnly to tradeNothing at all

Who showed bravery and unity?

Native AmericansOnly Spanish explorersOnly the kingNo one

What was a result of explorers taking land?

Native Americans resistedExplorers left quicklyNothing changedEveryone became friends

Why did rivalries begin?

Explorers wanted land and goldExplorers wanted to help onlyThey played gamesThey spoke the same language

How did Native Americans respond to explorers?