The English Colonies in Virginia

This set of flashcards covers key concepts about the English Colonies in Virginia, focusing on the initial colonization efforts, the role of indentured servants, the establishment of the House of Burgesses, and significant figures like John Rolfe.

What was the significance of the royal charter given to Sir Walter Raleigh by Queen Elizabeth I?

It authorized him to set up and govern colonies in North America.

Who were the early inhabitants of Roanoke Island?

The Roanoke Island colonists were the first group sent by Sir Walter Raleigh, including men and later families.

What was the main reason for England's exploration of North America in the late 1500s?

To compete with Spain for land, resources, and to find gold and silver.

What happened to the first Roanoke colony?

The colony failed, and the settlers returned to England due to a lack of supplies and support.

What was the goal of the Virginia Company?

To establish a new colony in North America and make a profit by exporting natural resources.

What was the first cash crop that saved Jamestown?

Tobacco, introduced by John Rolfe.

What was the House of Burgesses?

The first representative assembly in English North America.

What role did indentured servants play in the Jamestown colony?

They worked for a fixed period in exchange for passage to America and eventual land.

What challenges did Jamestown settlers face upon arrival?

Poor water quality, food shortages, and hostile relations with the Powhatan Indians.

How did John Rolfe contribute to the success of Jamestown?

He introduced and cultivated tobacco, which became the colony's main cash crop.

What was the significance of the royal charter given to Sir Walter Raleigh by Queen Elizabeth I?

It authorized him to set up and govern colonies in North America.

Who were the early inhabitants of Roanoke Island?

The Roanoke Island colonists were the first group sent by Sir Walter Raleigh, including men and later families.

What was the main reason for England's exploration of North America in the late 1500s?

To compete with Spain for land, resources, and to find gold and silver.

What happened to the first Roanoke colony?

The colony failed, and the settlers returned to England due to a lack of supplies and support.

What was the mystery of the "Lost Colony" of Roanoke?

The disappearance of the second Roanoke colony, leaving only the word "Croatoan" carved on a tree.

What clue was found about the fate of the "Lost Colony" of Roanoke?

The word "Croatoan" carved on a post or tree, suggesting they might have moved to a nearby island inhabited by the Croatoan tribe.

What was the goal of the Virginia Company?

To establish a new colony in North America and make a profit by exporting natural resources.

What was the primary goal of the Virginia Company in establishing Jamestown?

To find gold and other valuable resources to send back to England and make a profit for the company's investors.

What was the first cash crop that saved Jamestown?

Tobacco, introduced by John Rolfe.

What was the House of Burgesses?

The first representative assembly in English North America.

What role did indentured servants play in the Jamestown colony?

They worked for a fixed period in exchange for passage to America and eventual land.

What challenges did Jamestown settlers face upon arrival?

Poor water quality, food shortages, and hostile relations with the Powhatan Indians.

What was the "Starving Time" in Jamestown?

A harsh winter in 1609-1610 when many Jamestown colonists died from hunger, disease, and cold.

How did John Rolfe contribute to the success of Jamestown?

He introduced and cultivated tobacco, which became the colony's main cash crop.

How did Captain John Smith help Jamestown survive its early years?

He forced the colonists to work, negotiated with the Powhatan Indians for food, and instilled discipline.

What was the significance of the Powhatan tribe for the early Jamestown colonists?

They initially helped the colonists by trading food and supplies, but conflicts over land and resources soon led to warfare.