"Early American" refers to the period in the history of the United States from the late 15th century to the early 19th century. This era began with the arrival of European explorers, such as Christopher Columbus, and included the establishment of the first colonies, like Jamestown in 1607. It was marked by the interactions between European settlers and Native American tribes, as well as the development of a distinct American identity. During this time, significant events shaped the nation, including the American Revolution (1775-1783) and the drafting of foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The period also saw the expansion westward, driven by the belief in Manifest Destiny, which influenced the growth of the United States and its cultural landscape.