The French are a notable exception to this, and in fact, enjoyed excellent relations with the Natives almost from the very beginning.
By the 1650s, the Dutch colony of New Netherland rivaled neighboring English settlements in the New World.
Gold, silver, and furs attracted European exploration, colonization, and competition in the New World.
Life at Jamestown is a story of the struggles of the English colonists as they encountered the Powhatan Indians, whose ancestors had lived on this land for centuries, as well as their struggles among themselves as they tried to work and live with people of different backgrounds and social classes. It is the story of everyday life in an unfamiliar environment at Jamestown, including perilous times such as the “starving time” during 1609-10 and the expansion of the colony when more colonists, including women, came to strengthen the settlement and make it more permanent. Most important, Life at Jamestown is the story of people – of human bravery, cruelty and a grim determination to survive which ultimately laid the foundation for our country today. So the Powhatan Indians helped them survive.
Jamestown land was desirable because of the many trees for building houses and ships, good for growing crops, and good hunting ground.The colonists had unwanted enemies who wanted to keep the land for themselves. Their enemies didn't really want them on their land so Jamestown had to build a fort to protect themselves from getting killed. In the beginning many people in Jamestown ended up starving and dying of salt poisoning from drinking to much salt water because they were forced by enemies to say in their fort without fresh water. When they finally went to their enemies they traded jewels for corn and food and were successful.
I hope this helps.