Jamestown Colony Failure

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Introduction

In 1607, three ships, the Susan Constant, the Godspeed, and the Discovery, set off for an extensive but meaningful journey across the Atlantic. On May 14, these ships, carrying approximately one hundred men sailing from England, landed on what is now present day Virginia in the Chesapeake Bay. This event marked the establishment of Jamestown, one of the most important establishments in early U.S history. For two lengthy years the Jamestown colony faced challenges including famine, disease, and continual conflict with the local Native Americans. These adversities caused Jamestown to decline, placing the colony on the brink of failure. The inhabitants of Jamestown as well as officials in England realized measures needed to be taken …show more content…

The English sought to counter Spanish success by establishing colonies of their own in North America for both economic and religious reasons, hoping to acquire large amounts of gold, silver, and other valuable resources. The English King, King James I, who was head of the Church of England, also sought to establish a foundation for Protestant Christianity in the New World. At this same time, a group of merchants in England raised money by selling shares, and subsequently, founded a joint-stock company called the Virginia Company of London. King James I of England granted a royal charter to the Virginia Company for the purpose of establishing colonies in Virginia, and this company eventually became the driving force behind the establishment of …show more content…

In one of the most famous stories in American history, John Smith and nine colleagues suffered an attack by the natives when exploring the land. John Smith was taken to Werowocomoco, the Powhatan’s chief residence. Smith and Chief Powhatan exchanged notes on the motives of the English and information about land and trade. The Indians held clubs to Smith’s head with the purpose of harming him, yet a girl named Pocahontas, said to be Chief Powhatan's favorite daughter, showed great concern with this; her actions caused Smith’s life to be spared. According to Smith, Chief Powhatan claimed that he will live, “to make for him hatchets, and for Pocahontas bells, beads, and ornaments of

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