First European Settlements in Northern America

These flashcards cover important vocabulary and concepts related to the first European settlements in Northern America, focusing on key figures, events, and societal dynamics.

Northwest Passage

A sea route connecting the northern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, historically sought by explorers.

St. Augustine

The first permanent Spanish colony in North America, established in Florida in 1565.

Protestant Reformation

A religious movement initiated by Martin Luther in 1517 that led to the establishment of Protestant churches.

Indentured Servants

People who agreed to work for a certain number of years in exchange for transportation to America.

Jamestown

The first enduring English settlement in North America, established in Virginia in 1607.

Pocahontas

The daughter of Chief Powhatan who played a significant role in the relationship between Native Americans and English settlers.

Tobacco

A cash crop that became the main economic product of the Virginia colony, introduced by John Rolfe.

Mayflower Compact

An agreement signed by the Pilgrims in 1620 to establish a self-governing colony based on majority rule.

Puritans

A religious group that wanted to 'purify' the Church of England of Catholic practices and rituals.

Wampanoag

A Native American tribe that formed an alliance with the Pilgrims and helped them survive their first winter.

Great Migration

The migration of approximately 14,000 Puritans to New England in the 1630s, led by John Winthrop.

Pequot War

A conflict between Pequot Indians and English settlers in New England from 1634 to 1638.

Chesapeake Bay Colonies

Colonies established for economic goals, primarily focused on tobacco plantation agriculture.

Lower South Colonies

Southern colonies including North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia that relied on plantation agriculture.

Colonial Society

The structure of society in the colonies, characterized by regional differences and diverse populations.

Social Hierarchy

The organization of society based on class and power dynamics, including gentry, yeomen, and laborers.

Demographics

Statistical data relating to the population and particular groups within it, crucial in understanding settlement patterns.

Disease

A leading cause of death among early settlers in Jamestown, significantly impacting survival rates.

Cultural Exchange

The sharing of ideas, customs, and social behavior between Native Americans and European settlers.

Cash crops

Crops produced for commercial value rather than for use by the grower.

Legislative Assembly

A governing body that creates laws and represents the interests of the colonies.