Erica Maybaum 2nd Period Virginia colony Erica Maybaum 2nd Period

Formation of Colony

Formation of Colony Began with establishment of Jamestown, 1607 Named for England’s “Virgin Queen” 1609-Virginia Company in England granted charter to territory all the way to Chesapeake Bay Goals: wealth, employment, more land

Inhabitants Inhabited by Native Americans prior to formation Majority of men Protestants Sent from England African slave laborers to cultiv- ate crops

Structure of Society Coulrd create own laws if compatible with English law Governor had full authority and almost dictator-like powers Relations and conflict with Indians led to end of Virginia Company

Environmental Factors Lack of skills led to starvation and disease Lack of laborers Hot, humid climate was difficult to survive Wet, swampy area —fertile soil

Agriculture Wet, swampy area—fertile soil TOBACCO Wheat Corn

Industry Plantation agriculture, slave labor Gold and precious minerals Tobacco Depended on regular supplies from England & trade with Native Ameri- cans

Significant People: John Smith Admiral of New England English soldier and explorer Established 1st English settle- ment, Jamestown Associated with Native Americans, specifically Pocahontas and the Powhaten tribe

Significant People: King James I Issued charter to send Virginia Company to East coast of the New World James River and Jamestown named after King James I