Overview
This lecture traces the early settlement and founding of America, from the first English colonies to the outbreak of the American Revolution, highlighting key figures, motivations, conflicts, and the unifying quest for freedom.
Early Settlement and Jamestown
- The first English settlers endured perilous Atlantic voyages for opportunity and land in North America.
- Jamestown, founded in 1607, faced starvation and high mortality; only 1 in 10 settlers survived the first year.
- John Rolfe introduced profitable tobacco cultivation, transforming Jamestown into America's first boomtown.
- Tobacco became the main export and economic foundation for the colony and later the nation.
- African slaves arrived in 1619, some gaining land and shaping the early colonies.
Plymouth Colony and Pilgrims
- Pilgrims landed at Plymouth in 1620, seeking religious freedom and self-governance.
- Harsh conditions led to heavy loss of life; over half died in the first winter.
- Peaceful alliances with local Native Americans enabled survival, sharing knowledge of agriculture.
- The first Thanksgiving celebrated this alliance and early prosperity.
Colonial Growth and Diversity
- Colonies grew through immigration from across Europe, creating a diverse and entrepreneurial society.
- Boston, New York, and Southern plantations flourished with commerce, agriculture, and trade.
- Colonists enjoyed greater health, wealth, and lower taxes compared to Europe but maintained British identity initially.
Rising Tensions with Britain
- British taxes and regulation fueled colonial resentment and acts of resistance, like John Hancock's smuggling.
- Boston became a center of protest and was occupied by British soldiers to enforce laws.
- Slavery was central to both Northern and Southern economies, with 10% of Bostonians being black.
The American Revolution Begins
- The Boston Massacre in 1770 and subsequent events unified colonists against British control.
- Communication networks and newspapers, like those managed by Benjamin Franklin, spread revolutionary ideas rapidly.
- The Boston Tea Party and British retaliation heightened conflict, leading to economic strangulation of Massachusetts.
- The First Continental Congress in 1774 fostered colonial unity and resolve to defend liberty.
The Battles of Lexington and Concord
- Colonial militias, composed of ordinary citizens, prepared for conflict against British forces.
- In April 1775, British troops marched to seize colonial arms, but were met by militias at Lexington and Concord.
- The "shot heard round the world" marked the start of armed revolution.
- American militias, including free African-Americans, resisted the British, initiating the fight for independence.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Jamestown — First permanent English settlement in North America, founded in 1607.
- John Rolfe — English settler who introduced tobacco cultivation to Virginia.
- Mayflower — Ship that brought the Pilgrims to Plymouth in 1620.
- Pilgrims — English settlers seeking religious freedom in America.
- Continental Congress — Assembly of colonial representatives that coordinated resistance to British rule.
- Militia — Civilian military units formed for local defense.
- Lexington and Concord — First battles of the American Revolution.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the role of key figures (e.g., John Rolfe, Paul Revere, George Washington) in early American history.
- Study the sequence of major colonial events leading up to the Revolution for next session.