ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Timeline of United States discoveries

Okay kiddo, let me explain the timeline of United States' discoveries in a way you can understand.

A long time ago, people didn't know that America existed because it was a secret place hidden across the oceans. But then, in 1492, a man named Christopher Columbus sailed across the ocean on ships with his friends and discovered a new land. This event is known as the discovery of America.

After that, many explorers like John Cabot, Juan Ponce de Leon, Hernando de Soto, and Henry Hudson came to explore the different parts of America. They found rivers, mountains, and forests; many of them met native people and traded with them. This was the beginning of North American exploration.

Later, in the 19th century, some important events took place that changed America forever. In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson bought a huge piece of land from France called the Louisiana Purchase. This included many areas from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains.

In 1848, gold was discovered in California, which led to the California Gold Rush. People rushed to California to find gold and make a lot of money.

Finally, in the 20th century, the United States made a lot of advancements in science and technology. They sent astronauts to the moon, discovered and developed vaccines and medicines, and found new ways to communicate with other people around the world.

So, all these events have been like little steps in America's growth and development. And, it all started with Christopher Columbus' discovery of America!