Q+A: ~~~~The Early Colonization of the Americas~~~~

These flashcards cover key concepts, events, and figures from the early colonization of the Americas, focusing on various European powers, their interactions with Native populations, and the development of early colonial societies.

What major event in 1588 facilitated French and English colonization in North America?

The English defeated the Spanish Armada.

What was the purpose of joint-stock companies in the early colonization of North America?

To settle and develop lands in North America and organize intercontinental trade.

What was the significance of the Columbian Exchange?

It was the exchange of plants, animals, foods, diseases, and ideas between the New World and Europe.

What system allowed Spanish colonists to control a group of Natives for conversion and labor?

The Spanish Encomienda System.

What was the Racial Caste System in Spanish America, starting from the highest to the lowest?

Europeans, Mestizos, Zambos, Full-blooded Africans.

Who argued for the natural rights of Natives and opposed their enslavement?

Bartolomé de Las Casas.

What was one reason for the decline of the French significance in North America?

The Edict of Nantes in 1598.

What was the initial crop that led to the development of plantation slavery in Virginia?

Tobacco.

What system was introduced by the Virginia Company to encourage settlers to move to the colonies?

The headright system.

What was established in Virginia in 1619 that allowed property-holding white males to vote?

The House of Burgesses.

What important legal document did the Pilgrims create that asserted government power comes from the governed?

The Mayflower Compact.

What was the main focus of the Puritan movement led by English Calvinists?

To purify the Anglican church of Roman Catholic practices.

What principle did Roger Williams advocate that led to his banishment from Puritan society?

The separation of Church and state.

What significant event demonstrated colonial opposition to British control over trade in 1733?

The Molasses Act which taxed sugar imports.

What uprising in 1739 was the first and one of the most successful slave rebellions?

The Stono Uprising.

What was the Halfway Covenant created in response to growing commercialism?

A change in Puritan rules allowing baptized children of baptized parents to be baptized.

What demographic change occurred in colonial America during the 18th century?

Immense population growth, including the immigration of Scotch-Irish, Scots, and Germans.

What was the primary economic focus of the Middle Colonies?

Farming, especially due to fertile land for grain exports.

Which region of the colonies predominantly focused on cash crops like tobacco and rice?

The Lower South, particularly the Carolinas.

How did colonial governments in America generally function despite British regulations?

They had autonomy with governors dependent on colonial legislatures for funding.