Answer: Alcohol became increasingly common and disruptive.
Prior to the arrival of the colonists, there were already some types of alcoholic drinks available. However, these were very low in alcohol content (8%-12%) and not widely consumed. They were difficult to obtain and were mostly reserved for ceremonial purposes.
After the arrival of the colonists, spirits became more available, and they were constantly used when trading with Native Americans. Their availability, the lack of experience with alcohol, and the lack of regulations surrounding it led to massive consumption among Native populations and brought severe problems to these societies.
