In 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert led an expedition to establish the first permanent English colony in North America, specifically at St. John's in Newfoundland and Labrador. This venture was fueled by desires for new trade routes and increased influence in the burgeoning age of exploration. After receiving letters patent from Queen Elizabeth I, Gilbert secured the resources and ships needed for his journey, demonstrating the era's ambition for expansion and colonization.

Upon arrival, Gilbert claimed the land in the name of the English crown, asserting sovereignty over these territories for England. His expedition included approximately 200 men but faced significant hardships, including challenges for resources and disputes among crew members. Despite these difficulties, the establishment of the colony marked a pivotal moment in the race among European nations to claim new territories, setting the stage for future English settlements.

This colony was also notable for its purpose beyond mere settlement; it aimed to exploit local resources, particularly fish, which were highly sought after in Europe. The strategic position of St. John's made it a lucrative site for fishing vessels, and this focus would influence the region's economic development in the years to follow. Although the colony faced challenges and was not sustained for long, it represented the beginning of English efforts to colonize North America and collect valuable natural resources.