Meaning: The quote "Long after this wonderful event in the Earth's history, when the human species was spread over a good deal of Asia, Europe, and Africa, migration to the American continents began in attempts to find new feeding grounds and unoccupied areas for hunting and fishing" by Harry Johnston, an explorer, highlights the historical movement of human populations from the Old World to the New World. This migration, which occurred over millennia, shaped the demographics and cultures of the American continents and is a significant aspect of human history.

The quote refers to a period in the Earth's history when human populations had already established themselves across Asia, Europe, and Africa. This dispersal of human populations is commonly associated with the prehistoric expansion of Homo sapiens out of Africa and their subsequent colonization of other continents. The movement of early humans across these regions was driven by a variety of factors, including environmental changes, population pressures, and the search for new resources.

As human populations expanded and adapted to different environments in the Old World, the quote suggests that the exploration and migration to the American continents began. This migration was motivated by the search for new feeding grounds and unoccupied areas for hunting and fishing. The availability of resources and the opportunity for new territories likely played a crucial role in driving these migration patterns.

The timing of this migration to the American continents is significant in the context of human history. It is commonly understood that the peopling of the Americas occurred over several waves of migration, with the earliest evidence dating back to at least 15,000 years ago. These migrations involved complex journeys across land and sea, as well as adaptations to diverse ecosystems and climates.

The exploration and settlement of the Americas brought about significant changes for both the migrants and the indigenous populations already present in the region. The interactions between different human groups, the exchange of technologies and ideas, and the establishment of new societies all contributed to the rich tapestry of human history in the Americas.

Harry Johnston, the explorer attributed with the quote, was known for his travels and writings during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His observations and insights into the exploration and colonization of different regions provide valuable perspectives on the historical movements of human populations.

In conclusion, the quote by Harry Johnston underscores the enduring human impulse to explore and migrate in search of new opportunities. The movement of human populations from the Old World to the American continents has left a profound impact on the history and development of the Americas, shaping the cultures and societies that exist in these regions today. Understanding the processes and motivations behind these migrations is essential for comprehending the complexities of human history and the interconnectedness of global populations.