England was the first European nation to establish settlements near the Appalachian Mountains.

In the early 17th century, English settlers began to move into the region, particularly in areas such as Virginia and the Carolinas. These early colonies marked the beginning of English influence in the Appalachians, as settlers sought land for agriculture and resources. The establishment of settlements led to significant interactions with Indigenous peoples and contributed to the cultural and economic development of the region. Over time, these early English settlements laid the groundwork for the growth of the Appalachian region and its communities.