What effect did the Atlantic Ocean have on settlement?

The Atlantic Ocean significantly influenced settlement patterns by serving as a major transportation route, facilitating trade and migration between Europe and the Americas. Its vast waters allowed for the movement of people, goods, and ideas, leading to the establishment of coastal cities and colonies. Additionally, the ocean's resources, such as fish, played a crucial role in the sustenance of early settlements. However, it also presented challenges like storms and navigation difficulties that settlers had to navigate.