Introduction
The Age of Contact began in 1492, when Christopher Columbus sailed in search of a western route form Europe to Asia and reached the Americas instead. European empires began exploring this land to search for great wealth and to convert American Indians to Christianity. Spain conquered a vast area, including present-day Texas, but France also sent explorers to compete for territory. As Europeans vied for control over Texas and its surroundings. Native Americans saw their way of life devastated by violence and disease.
- Pearson Texas History (Walter L. Buenger & Emilio Zamora)