"For God, Gold, and Glory," became the mantra of colonists in deed, even if those exact words were never uttered.  The motives of Europeans could not be concealed for long.  Native poplulations declined drastically and the New World's transformation was in full swing from the time of Columbus' famed voyage in 1492 to the hardfought establishment of the first English Colony at Jamestown in 1607.

 

Following the founding of Jamestown, droves of colonists made their way to the New World in search of opportunity and adventure.  The English Crown and British investors heavily encouraged colonial development as the prospect for endless resources and wealth began to surface.  As settlements took hold, however, colonists developed a unique identity that began to question centuries-old political ideas and structures of the Old World. The colonies grew and matured rapidly, and it would not be long before they sought to sever ties with Europe.

 

As we look at this, our first unit of study, we will explore the following questions:

~How were the original colonies established?

~What are the goals of mercantilism, and how do colonies help achieve them?

~How does mercantilism cause tension between the American Colonists and English Parliament?