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Questions and Answers
Who inspired John Cabot to seek a western route to Asia?
John Cabot correctly identified the land he reached as part of Asia.
False
What was the name of the island off the coast of North Carolina where Sir Walter Raleigh attempted to establish a colony?
Roanoke
The word carved on a doorpost by the lost colonists of Roanoke was __________.
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Match the following explorers or leaders with their associated events:
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What was the primary goal of the London Company when establishing Jamestown?
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The settlers at Roanoke were more interested in fishing than looking for gold.
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How many settlers and sailors were crammed into the ships sent by the London Company?
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What was the primary reason the Jamestown settlers initially chose their settlement location?
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John Smith was the first governor of Jamestown.
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Who saved John Smith from being clubbed to death?
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During the 'Starving Time', Jamestown settlers resorted to eating _____ to survive.
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Which crop did John Rolfe introduce that helped Jamestown's economy?
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Match the following individuals with their contributions to Jamestown:
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Pocahontas was held as a hostage by the English for two years.
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Study Notes
Exploration and Early Attempts at Colonization
- John Cabot, an Italian explorer, inspired by Columbus, sought a western route to Asia and landed in Newfoundland in 1497.
- Cabot claimed the land for England, mistakenly believing it was part of Asia, marking the beginning of English interest in North America.
The Lost Colony of Roanoke
- Sir Walter Raleigh attempted to establish a colony on Roanoke Island, North Carolina, in the late 16th century.
- The initial group received assistance from local American Indians but prioritized gold over sustainable living, leading to supply shortages.
- A second group arrived in 1587 but faced delays due to war with Spain; when returned, they found the colony abandoned with the word "CROATOAN" carved nearby, leaving its fate a mystery.
The Establishment of Jamestown
- In 1607, the London Company founded Jamestown, Virginia, with 105 settlers and 39 sailors aiming for profit through resource extraction.
- Jamestown was built on a swampy peninsula prone to disease and surrounded by the powerful Powhatan tribe, leading to conflicts.
- Settlers lacked farming skills and were primarily focused on gold rather than survival, resulting in a reliance on trade with the Powhatan.
Leadership of John Smith
- John Smith emerged as a leader in 1608, enforcing a work ethic crucial for survival: “If any would not work, neither should he eat.”
- Smith's interactions with Pocahontas, Chief Powhatan's daughter, were pivotal in securing food and fostering peace with her tribe.
The Starving Time
- Following Smith's departure in 1609, the winter of 1609-1610 became known as the "Starving Time," with settlers resorting to consuming dogs, rats, and even corpses.
- The population dwindled from 500 to about 60 by spring, prompting plans to abandon Jamestown until new supply ships arrived.
Conflict and Resolution
- Tensions with the Powhatan continued, culminating in the kidnapping of Pocahontas to secure the release of English prisoners.
- During her captivity, Pocahontas adopted Christianity and learned English, developing a bond with John Rolfe, who introduced profitable tobacco cultivation.
- Pocahontas and John Rolfe's marriage in 1614 represented a significant peace treaty and allowed settlers to cultivate and trade tobacco successfully.
Conclusion of Jamestown’s Struggles
- By 1616, Rolfe noted that settlers lived and worked peacefully, signifying a turning point for the colony's stability and prosperity.
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Description
Explore the beginnings of the first English colony at Jamestown and understand its historical significance. This quiz delves into the voyages of explorers like John Cabot and the early expeditions that shaped colonial America.
