There was no other way to get to the New World as any land bridge no long existed.
Jamestown settlers took the ocean route they did primarily to ensure a safer and more efficient journey across the Atlantic Ocean. The chosen path allowed them to take advantage of prevailing winds and ocean currents, which facilitated faster travel. Additionally, the route helped them avoid potential hazards, such as storms and hostile territories, while aiming for the Virginia coast where they intended to establish their colony. This strategic navigation was essential for the survival and success of the Jamestown settlement.
From Europe the Atlantic Ocean was the route used.
The settlers who arrived in Jamestown in 1607 were aided by the Gulf Stream, a warm Atlantic Ocean current. This current flows northward along the eastern coast of the United States, providing a favorable route for ships traveling from Europe to the New World. By harnessing the Gulf Stream, ships could make the journey more efficiently, facilitating the colonization efforts of the English settlers.
Sailing from Europe to South America, the most practical route would be across the Atlantic Ocean.
Louis Joliet was seeking a water route to the Pacific Ocean through North America. He was hoping to explore and map the region for fur trading purposes on behalf of the French government.
Slaves were forcibly transported across the Atlantic Ocean to America during the transatlantic slave trade. This journey, known as the Middle Passage, involved horrific conditions on slave ships, leading to high mortality rates. The Atlantic was a critical route for this brutal trade, connecting Africa to the Americas.
to explore the Mississippi river and a route to the Pacific ocean
The most direct ocean route from South America to Asia is across the Pacific Ocean. Ships typically travel westward from the west coast of South America, such as ports in Chile or Peru, towards major Asian ports in countries like China or Japan. This route takes advantage of prevailing ocean currents and trade winds, facilitating efficient maritime navigation.
Louis Joliet started exploring in the 1660s, particularly in North America. He is best known for his explorations with Jacques Marquette, including their famous journey to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean.
The journey for settlers traveling from Europe to America typically took between 6 to 12 weeks, depending on various factors such as the weather, the ship's speed, and the specific route taken. On average, most voyages lasted around 8 to 10 weeks. Therefore, the number of days it took could range from approximately 42 to 84 days.
Middle Passage
Marquette and Joliet were sent on their journey by the French government, specifically by the governor of New France, which was the French colony in North America. They were tasked with exploring the Mississippi River to find a potential river route to the Pacific Ocean.