What was the initial impact of European colonization on Native American populations?

The initial impact of European colonization on Native American populations was a dramatic decline in population due to disease, warfare, and displacement. When Europeans arrived in the Americas, they brought with them diseases such as smallpox, influenza, and measles, to which the Native Americans had no immunity. This resulted in catastrophic epidemics that decimated indigenous populations. Additionally, the introduction of European colonization often led to violent conflicts as settlers expanded their territories, leading to wars and armed engagements that further reduced Native American numbers.

Displacement also had a significant impact; as Europeans established colonies, they pushed indigenous groups off their lands, resulting in loss of territory, resources, and traditional ways of life. Collectively, these factors contributed to one of the most significant demographic shifts in history, leading to the drastic decline of many native populations across the continent in the wake of European expansion.