European colonists were people from various countries in Europe, such as England, France, Spain, and Portugal, who traveled to new lands to establish settlements. They sought opportunities for trade, land, and resources, often motivated by the desire for wealth and expansion of their nations. These colonists played a significant role in the history of regions like North America, South America, and parts of Africa and Asia. Their arrival often led to the displacement of indigenous populations and significant cultural changes, as they introduced new languages, religions, and agricultural practices.