Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?

The correct choice is Native Americans, who are recognized as the original inhabitants of what is now the United States. Before the arrival of European explorers and settlers in the late 15th century, diverse groups of Native American tribes inhabited the continent for thousands of years, each with their own distinct cultures, languages, and social structures. Their rich history and connection to the land predate European colonization significantly.

Other groups mentioned, such as colonists, arrived after Europeans came to America. Africans were forcibly brought to America much later through the transatlantic slave trade, and while peoples from Asia have a long history on the continent as well, significant migration happened well after the initial contact and colonization by Europeans. Therefore, the history and presence of Native Americans is foundational to the narrative of America before European arrival.