The First American Settlers

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The interaction among the English and Native Americans helped shape the development of the Virginia colony. The origins of the traditions held by the population of America started from the time that this land was first set foot on by the human species and was compounded throughout the rest of time. The immigrants and slaves expanded on the traditions of the original settlers. And, along with those they brought their own religions and cultures that also added to the traditions of this country. Opportunity for England to discover, explore and settle new lands arose in the late fifteenth century. Competition to stake claims in the new world was out of control in many European countries. Beginning in the early sixteenth century England's primary political focus was aimed towards the hostile situation with Spain. Spain and Portugal had already sent voyages to the new world and other voyages to navigate the globe. Increasing friction regarding Spain peaked during the second half of the sixteenth century. Therefore, a group of Englishmen began to urge the enforcement of establishing colonies or at least operational bases in North America. The aggressive relations with Spain opened the pathway for colonization of America, but were not the only reasons for the establishment for colonies in the new world. The first English settlement in North America was Jamestown; the marshy banks of Virginia. The first settlers of Jamestown were not explorers or experienced woodsmen, but disinherited aristocrats with dreams of finding gold and silver. These men had never been exposed to routine work and expected to rely only on the Indians for labor and support. The inexperience of these first settlers eventually led to the initial demise of Jamestown. ... ... middle of paper ... ......at the dreadfull day of judgment to condemne be herein, if my chiefest intent and minde, in the undertaking of so mightie a matter, no was led with the inbridled desire of carnall affection: but for the go...leade the blind into the right way." This is so troublesome for Rolfe because he believes that if he does not do this, he will not go to heaven "...for my own salvation." Native Americans had peace for eight years. This peace was important for the English because they were still trying to establish a stable colony and with many men falling ill the English could not afford to go to war with the Native Americans. Another reason that the marriage was able to be successful was because Powhatan know that if he can get the English to unite with the Native Americans they would be a very powerful in a sense that if the English joined, their weapons would also follow.

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