The first European colonization wave took place from the early 15th century (Portuguese conquest of Ceuta in 1415) until the early 19th century (French invasion of Algeria in 1830), and primarily involved the European colonization of the Americas, though it also included the creation of European colonies in India and other Asian countries (Spanish conquest of Philippines). The colonization of Africa largely did not take place during this era. During this period, European interests in Africa were primarily focused on the establishment of trading posts there, particularly for the Atlantic slave trade.
The second major phase of European colonization, which was primarily focused on Africa and Asia, is known as the period of the New Imperialism.
Read more about First European Colonization Wave: The Role of The Church, Northern European Challenges To Iberian Hegemony, Rule in The Colonies: The Leyes De Burgos and The Code Noir, Role of Companies in Early Colonialism, European Colonies in India During The First Wave of Colonization, Destruction of The Amerindian Population
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