Most important period in American history

The most important period in the American history to me is when Christopher Columbus discovered and colonized America. The reason why I say this is the most important period is because without Christopher Columbus then the United States would have been just another island left unnamed and unknown to mankind on the outside, and yet because of Christopher Columbus exploitation and colonization was born. Even though the native American people were already living on the continent of what we call “America” now, it still was claimed to be discovered by Columbus. The trading of certain items such as, tobacco, and edible foods started between the Americas and Europe (by being imported). Also, during this time of colonization and trade came with it the negative side as well which was the slave trade. Good things and bad things came out of the colonization and discovery of America.