TX PACT Social Studies: Grades 4–8 (718) Practice Test

The first settlers in America were Indigenous tribes migrating from Asia. This migration is believed to have occurred over thousands of years ago when small groups of people crossed the Bering Land Bridge, a land connection between Asia and North America that existed during the last Ice Age. These Indigenous tribes adapted to various environments across the continent, developing distinct cultures and societies. Their deep-rooted presence in the Americas predates any other groups, including European explorers and settlers who arrived much later.

While nomadic tribes did exist and may have become more permanent in certain areas over time, they emerged later in the historical timeline compared to the original Indigenous populations. The Pilgrims who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 were among the first European settlers in America, but they were not the first settlers overall. Spanish explorers, seeking gold and other riches, came after the Indigenous tribes were already established in the region. Thus, the correct answer reflects the early migration and settlement of the first peoples in America.