Colonial settlements were communities established by European powers in various parts of the world, primarily during the 15th to 18th centuries. These settlements often aimed to exploit resources, expand territory, and spread culture. Notable examples include the Jamestown settlement in Virginia and the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts, both founded by English settlers. The process of colonization involved the establishment of towns, farms, and trade routes, often displacing indigenous populations. Colonial settlements were characterized by their reliance on agriculture, trade, and sometimes slavery, which played a significant role in the economic development of the colonies.