The term "Lost Colonies" primarily refers to the Roanoke Colony, established in 1585 on Roanoke Island, present-day North Carolina. This colony was one of the first attempts by the English to establish a permanent settlement in North America. When a supply ship returned in 1590, the colony was found abandoned, with no clear indication of what happened to the settlers. The disappearance of the Roanoke colonists remains a mystery, leading to various theories, including assimilation with local Native American tribes or death from starvation or disease. The word "Croatoan" carved into a tree was the only clue left behind, sparking intrigue and speculation for centuries.