> CHRONOLOGY

1517
  • Protestant Reformation begins in Germany.

1519
  • Charles I of Spain becomes Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

1524
  • Giovanni da Verrazano explores Atlantic coast of North America for France.

1535
  • Jacques Cartier explores St. Lawrence River.

1576
  • Martin Frobisher explores northern Canadian waters.

1578/1583
  • Sir Humphrey Gilbert leads expeditions to Newfoundland.

1585
  • Sir Walter Raleigh leads colonial settlement at Roanoke Island.