Early American History: Native Societies, European Colonization, and Revolutionary Foundations

What drove the European desire to cross the Atlantic at the turn of the 16th century?

The pursuit of new trade routes, wealth, and land.

What was the general character of Native American life before European arrival?

Native American societies were diverse, with complex social structures and varied cultures.

How were relations between various Native tribes characterized during early European contact?

Tribes were often divided and engaged in rivalries, which Europeans exploited to gain advantage.

What were some key social and cultural differences between Native tribes and Europeans?

Differences included concepts of wealth/property, religion, and gender relations.

What forces contributed to the impact of European arrival on Native American civilization?

Trade, warfare, and disease significantly affected Native populations.

What were the main characteristics of the French, Spanish, Dutch, and English colonies?

Each colony had distinct economic activities, political systems, and relations with Native Americans.

How were the first Chesapeake and New England colonies established?

They were established for economic opportunities and religious freedom, facing various challenges.

What was the Virginia Company and why is it considered a failure?

The Virginia Company aimed to establish a colony in Virginia but struggled with leadership and resources.

How did the Chesapeake and New England colonies differ in settlement and society?

Chesapeake colonies focused on cash crops, while New England colonies emphasized community and religion.

What was the nature of early English colonists' relationships with Native Americans?

Relationships were complex, often involving trade, conflict, and cultural exchanges.

What does the story of Pocahontas reveal about relations with the Powhatan Confederacy?

It illustrates both cooperation and conflict between English settlers and Native tribes.

What was the primary source of conflict between Natives and the English?

Land disputes and differing views on property ownership led to significant tensions.

What do the Mayflower Compact and figures like Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson indicate about New England?

They reflect the region's emphasis on self-governance, religious freedom, and social order.

What is mercantilism and how did it shape England's relationship with its colonies?

Mercantilism is an economic theory that prioritized colonial resources for the benefit of the mother country.

Why was slavery central to the development of the Virginia colony?

Slavery provided a labor force for cash crop production, crucial for economic success.

What unique features characterized the founding of Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania was founded on principles of religious tolerance and democratic governance.

What do events like the Salem Witch Trials and Bacon's Rebellion reveal about colonial society?

They highlight social tensions, inequality, and the complexities of Native-settler relations.

How did the status of women change as the American colonies developed?

Women faced increasing restrictions and societal expectations as colonial structures became more defined.

What was the status of diversity in the colonies by the mid-1700s?

Colonial society was increasingly diverse, shaped by immigration and varying economic roles.

What was the 'consumer revolution' in colonial America?

It was a shift towards increased consumerism and participation in the colonial economy.

How did slavery develop and expand in colonial America during the 18th century?

Slavery expanded due to economic demand, legal codification, and the slave trade's impact on Africa.

What was the Virginia Slave Code of 1705?

It formalized slavery laws, defining the status and rights of enslaved individuals in Virginia.

How did the founding of Georgia reflect the power of slavery?

Georgia was established as a buffer colony, and slavery became integral to its economic model.

How did slavery in the northern colonies differ from that in the South?

Northern slavery was less prevalent and often involved different labor systems compared to the South.

What role did the philosophy of 'salutary neglect' play in colonial freedoms?

It allowed colonies to self-govern and develop a sense of political and social freedom.

How did Enlightenment ideas influence American political culture?

Enlightenment thought encouraged ideas of liberty, democracy, and individual rights.

What impact did the Great Awakening have on religious freedom in the colonies?

It fostered religious diversity and challenged established churches, promoting individual faith.

What was the significance of the Seven Years' War for the American colonies?

The war reshaped colonial relations with Britain and heightened tensions leading to the Revolution.

What were the consequences of the Proclamation of 1763?

It restricted colonial expansion westward, causing resentment among colonists.