Key Points on Jamestown and Calvinists

Jamestown

• First permanent settlement in America (Virginia colony).

• Established by 104 men in April 1607, sailing across the Atlantic to the James River.

• Initially a small community, faced significant challenges.

• By January 1608, only 32 settlers remained due to diseases (malaria, yellow fever) and poor conditions.

Colonial Expansion

• Jamestown represents the settlement; Virginia is the larger controlling region.

• Other later settlements: Maryland, Georgia, New Hampshire, New York, South Carolina, Massachusetts, totaling 13 colonies.

Calvinists

• Two types of Calvinists: Predestined believers.

• Belief in predestination; God selects who will go to heaven.

• Concerned about knowing if they are chosen for heaven.

• Blessings on earth signified potential for heavenly salvation.

• Admiration for business people seen as reflections of God’s blessings.

• Contrasts with Catholic view where holiness was associated with monks.

• Laziness considered a significant sin by John Calvin.