Tobacco & Colonial Economy
Why was tobacco considered a “cash crop” in Virginia?
Because it was grown to sell for profit, not for personal use.
What different cultures made up the Virginia Colony?
It included Indigenous people, Europeans, and Africans
What factor influenced moving the capital from Jamestown to Williamsburg?
Jamestown’s contaminated water and damaged buildings.
Why did colonists exchange goods and services instead of using money?
Why did colonists exchange goods and services instead of using money?
What were the main reasons for writing the Declaration of Independence?
To state grievances and declare freedom from British rule.
How did the popularity of tobacco in England impact Virginia
It increased tobacco farming and demand for labor.
What motivated Europeans to migrate to Virginia?
Economic opportunity, farmland, and adventure.
Why was the name “Williamsburg” chosen for the new capital?
It honored King William III.
What is bartering?
Trading goods and services without money.
How did George Washington contribute to the Revolution?
He led the Continental Army as Commander-in-Chief.
How did the growth of tobacco farming affect Indigenous people in Virginia?
Colonists took more land, forcing Indigenous groups to relocate.
How did colonists’ migration impact Indigenous populations?
It pushed them off their homelands and reduced their territory.
How did the relocation from Jamestown to Williamsburg affect migration?
People moved closer for trade, leadership, and government activity.
How is bartering different from using credit?
Bartering trades goods; credit lets you buy now and pay later.
How did Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry contribute?
Jefferson wrote the Declaration; Henry inspired colonists with speeches.
How did tobacco farming affect Africans in the colony?
It increased reliance on enslaved Africans for labor
What were some traditions or customs shared among people in colonial Virginia?
Food, farming, storytelling, and building styles.
How did tensions with Great Britain later influence the move from Williamsburg to Richmond?
Richmond was farther from British attack and more central.
How did the Chesapeake Bay and the James and York rivers support colonial trade?
They allowed ships to transport goods, increasing trade and growth.
How did James Armistead Lafayette’s actions affect the war?
His spying helped win the Battle of Yorktown.
How did tobacco transform Virginia’s economy and society?
It drove land expansion, population growth, the labor system, and trade.
How did new race-based enslavement laws impact life in Virginia?
They created a permanent system of slavery based on race and restricted freedoms for Africans.
How did the James River influence the location of Virginia’s early capitals?
The river supported transportation, trade, and access for ships.
What did colonist often use in place of money?
Tobacco
Why might people risk their lives for independence?
To gain freedom, rights, and self-government.