Meaning: The quote "America, when it became known to Europeans, was, as it had long been, a scene of wide-spread revolution" by Francis Parkman, a renowned historian, touches upon the tumultuous and transformative nature of the American continent during the era of European exploration and colonization. This thought-provoking statement encapsulates the profound impact that the discovery and subsequent colonization of America had on European perceptions and the historical landscape of the continent.

The arrival of Europeans in the Americas marked a significant turning point in history. Prior to their arrival, the American continent was home to diverse indigenous cultures and societies, each with its own distinct customs, languages, and traditions. However, the influx of European explorers and settlers brought about a period of immense upheaval and change, leading to widespread disruptions and conflicts across the continent.

As Francis Parkman suggests, the Americas were already a scene of "wide-spread revolution" long before the arrival of Europeans. This notion alludes to the complex dynamics and ongoing changes that characterized the indigenous societies of the Americas. From the rise and fall of empires to the constant adaptation to environmental challenges, the Americas were indeed a continent in flux long before the arrival of European colonizers.

The encounter between Europeans and the indigenous peoples of the Americas resulted in a collision of cultures, power dynamics, and worldviews. This collision led to significant social, political, and economic transformations, often accompanied by violence, exploitation, and displacement. The impact of this encounter was far-reaching, fundamentally altering the course of history for both the indigenous peoples and the European colonizers.

The concept of "wide-spread revolution" also captures the transformative nature of the American continent in the eyes of Europeans. The discovery of the Americas opened up new opportunities for trade, expansion, and the acquisition of wealth and resources. This led to a period of intense competition among European powers, as they vied for control and dominance over the newly discovered lands. The resulting power struggles and conflicts further fueled the sense of revolution and upheaval in the Americas.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the Eurocentric perspective that characterized the early European understanding of the Americas. The term "revolution" may have been used to describe the perceived chaos and disorder that Europeans encountered in the new world, reflecting their own preconceptions and biases. It also underscores the Eurocentric narrative that often overshadowed the rich and complex histories of the indigenous peoples, whose societies were already well-established and undergoing their own processes of change and adaptation.

In conclusion, Francis Parkman's quote sheds light on the multifaceted nature of the encounter between Europeans and the Americas. It encapsulates the transformative impact of this encounter on both continents and the enduring legacy of this pivotal moment in history. By acknowledging the Americas as a scene of "wide-spread revolution," the quote prompts us to critically examine the complex and interconnected histories that continue to shape our understanding of the Americas and its enduring significance in the global narrative of human civilization.