Final answer:
The French, English, and Dutch were interested in North America for economic reasons, primarily trade and wealth. They interacted with native populations in different ways, relying on them for furs or engaging in conflicts and land seizures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The chief reasons that the French, English, and Dutch were interested in North America during this time were primarily economic. They were motivated by the desire for wealth and power through trade. The French and Dutch established colonies mainly as trading posts for furs, while the English aimed to make money for investors and find religious freedom.
Despite their different motivations, all three groups interacted with the native inhabitants of the lands they settled. The French and Dutch relied on native peoples to harvest furs, while the English engaged in conflicts and land seizures. These interactions had varying impacts on the native populations.