Indigenous peoples of the Southeastern Woodlands
In the early periods, agriculture led to population growth. Two important cultures in early periods were the Poverty Point Culture and Mississippian Culture. The Poverty Point Culture was in Louisiana during the Archaic period from 2000–1000 BCE. Objects show that they were trading.  The Mississippian Culture was from 800 CE to 1500 CE. They grew corn and were mound builders.  Many groups were part of the  Southeastern Ceremonial Complex. These were religious and trading connections. In the 16th century, the Spanish invaded the Southeastern lands and used the encomienda system. Hernando de Soto traveled the Southeastern Woodlands and attacked settlements. Colonial attacks made tribes weaker. Europeans brought diseases that reduced population sizes. European colonization also led to changes in Southeastern Woodland cultures. Roman Catholic missionaries created missions and tried to convert Natives people In the 17th century.