The arrival of a second group of English settlers to Roanoke Island was part of the broader attempts by England to establish a foothold in the New World during the late 16th century. Led by John White, the expedition was organized by Sir Walter Raleigh, who sought to capitalize on the potential riches of North America and establish trade. Initial efforts had resulted in the first Roanoke colony in 1585, which had failed due to conflicts with Native American tribes and dwindling supplies. This second endeavor aimed to learn from the mistakes of the past and build a more sustainable settlement. White's group consisted of around 117 men, women, and children eager to embrace a new life.Upon arrival, the settlers encountered a backdrop of complex interactions with the indigenous peoples of the area, including the Secotan and Croatan tribes. These relationships were crucial for the survival of the settlers as they relied on trade and diplomacy to secure their sustenance. The settlers established a fortified site and began to explore the surrounding lands, but faced immediate challenges, including food shortages and relations with local tribes. White’s departure to England for supplies would further complicate the colony's functioning. His delayed return, fueled by conflicts in Europe, would ultimately seal the colony's fate.When White finally returned three years later, he found the settlement deserted and the only clue to the colonists' fate was the word 'Croatoan' etched into a tree. This phrase hinted at possible relocation to Croatoan Island but offered no definitive answers. The disappearance of the Roanoke colonists is shrouded in mystery, spawning numerous theories, but the lack of documentation makes it one of the earliest unsolved cases in American colonial history.