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Jamestown, Virginia

Definition

Established in 1607 by English settlers from London Company, Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in North America.

Analogy

Think of Jamestown as a startup company. It had a rocky start with many failures and near bankruptcy (the "Starving Time"), but eventually found success (tobacco cultivation) that led to further expansion.

Related terms

John Smith: An English soldier and explorer who played a significant role in the establishment of Jamestown colony.

Tobacco Cultivation: The process of growing tobacco plants which became an economic staple for Virginia after John Rolfe introduced it in 1612.

Powhatan Confederacy: A group of Native American tribes living in the area where Jamestown was established, who had complex relationships with the settlers.

"Jamestown, Virginia" appears in:

Practice Questions (2)

  • Who was best known for his role in establishing Jamestown, Virginia, England's first permanent colony in America?
  • Who led the first successful English colony at Jamestown, Virginia?


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.