Spain was the first of the three countries to establish colonies in the New World.
Step-by-step explanation:
The discovery of America, in the 15th century, marked the beginning of the age of discoveries. Christopher Columbus, sent by Spain, arrived at the New World by chance while looking for new routes for trading. This event put Spain as a pioneer in the settlement of colonies and the country also became the master of the seas. It was not until having seen Spain's prosperity that France and England began to acquire their territories.