U.S. history begins with the arrival of Indigenous peoples thousands of years ago, followed by European exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. The Thirteen Colonies were established by the British in the 17th century, leading to conflicts with Native Americans and other European powers. The American Revolution in the late 18th century resulted in independence from Britain and the formation of a new government. The 19th century saw westward expansion, the Civil War, and the abolition of slavery. The U.S. emerged as a global power in the 20th century, participating in both World Wars and the Cold War. Civil rights movements in the 1960s aimed to end racial discrimination and promote equality.