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Founding of Jamestown
Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in North America. Established by the Virginia Company, its purpose was to expand English trade through resources like gold and tobacco. The colony faced harsh winters, disease, and conflicts with indigenous tribes. Fewer than half of the settlers survived past the first years. Key figures like John Smith helped establish relations with the natives, Despite the hardships, it became a key foundation for eventual growth in British America. -
Mayflower Compact
Signed in 1620 by those aboard the Mayflower ship, before landing in Plymouth, Massachusets. The compact was created to establish a framework for governance for pilgrims, it was the first document to form self-government in the colonies and laid the groundwork for democratic principles in the future United States. A social contract where people agree to obey the rules for the group's welfare and abide by them. The Mayflower brought the English concept of law and liberty to the New World. -
Bacons Rebbelion
Bacon's Rebellion(1676) was a Virginia revolt which Nathaniel Bacon led against Governor William Berkley's administration. It stemmed from frustrations over Native American attacks, economic inequality, and government corruption. It highlighted the tension between the frontier settlers and the elite. It lead to the shift from indentured servants to the use of African slaves for labor in the colonies, as well as the first demonstration of real pushback against royal authorities in the colonies. -
Salem Witch Trails
Salem Witch Trials were a series of prosecutions in colonial Massachusetts where those alleged of witchcraft were executed. This was driven by Puritan fears, social tensions, and paranoia, the trials exposed the dangers of mass hysteria and flawed legal practices. The trials highlighted the importance of evidence-based justice and caution against the misuse of power in times of fear. The Salem witch trials are a pivotal moment in the development of American legal principles, like due process. -
Treaty of Utrecht
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First Great Awakening
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George White filed sparks the Great Awakening
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outbreak of the 7 years war
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Proclamation line of 1763