50 Unbelievable Facts About Colonial America That Will Astonish You

Colonial America, the period between the 16th and 18th centuries, was a time of immense change and transformation. It marked the beginning of European settlement in North America and the establishment of the thirteen colonies that would eventually become the United States. While we may have a general understanding of this era, there are many lesser-known facts and untold stories that can shed a new light on this fascinating period of history.

In this article, we will delve into 50 intriguing facts about Colonial America that will surprise and inform you. From the origins of the colonies to the daily lives of its inhabitants, and the events that shaped the course of American history, this journey into the past promises to captivate your imagination and expand your knowledge.

50 Things You Didn't Know about Colonial America

by Claudia Dobson-Largie

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8007 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE

Origins and Settlement

1. The first permanent English colony in North America was not Jamestown, as is commonly believed, but Roanoke, established in 1585 on Roanoke Island off the coast of North Carolina. However, the colony mysteriously vanished, leaving behind the famous "Lost Colony."
2. The Pilgrims, who established Plymouth Colony in 1620, were originally seeking religious freedom in the Netherlands before deciding to settle in America.
3. The Dutch established New Amsterdam in 1624, which later became New York City. The name "Manhattan" is derived from the Native American word "Mannahatta," meaning "island of many hills."
4. The first African slaves were brought to Jamestown in 1619, marking the beginning of a tragic system of slavery that would shape American history for centuries.
5. The original thirteen colonies were established by various European powers, including England, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. Each colony had its unique character and laws, reflecting the diverse origins of its settlers.

Daily Life and Culture

6. Life in Colonial America was often harsh and unforgiving. Diseases, accidents, and infant mortality rates were high, and the average life expectancy was around 40 years.
7. Colonial Americans were highly religious, and church attendance was mandatory in many colonies. Religious leaders played a prominent role in society and often held positions of authority.
8. Education was limited in Colonial America, and most children only received basic literacy instruction. However, a few wealthy families sent their children to Europe for higher education.
9. Colonial Americans had a strong sense of community. They often helped each other with tasks such as building barns, raising livestock, and harvesting crops.
10. Food was scarce in Colonial America, and many families struggled to make ends meet. Common foods included corn, beans, potatoes, and salted meat.

Politics and Governance

11. The colonies were ruled by governors appointed by the British Crown. These governors had a great deal of power and could veto laws passed by colonial legislatures.
12. Colonial Americans had limited political rights. Only white male property owners could vote, and women and non-whites were excluded from political participation.
13. The colonies gradually developed their own representative assemblies, which allowed colonists to have a say in local affairs.
14. Tensions between the colonies and Great Britain grew over issues such as taxation, representation, and the regulation of trade.
15. The American Revolution began in 1775, as colonists fought for independence from British rule.

Wars and Conflicts

16. Colonial America was the scene of several wars, including the French and Indian War and King Philip's War.
17. The French and Indian War (1754-1763) was a major conflict between France and Great Britain over control of North America. The war ended with a British victory, but it also led to increased tensions with the colonies.
18. King Philip's War (1675-1676) was a bloody conflict between English colonists and Native American tribes in New England.
19. The American Revolution (1775-1783) was a successful war of independence fought by the American colonies against Great Britain.
20. The American Revolution was a turning point in world history, as it led to the creation of the United States, a new nation founded on the principles of democracy and self-government.

Other Fascinating Facts

21. Colonial Americans were highly superstitious, and they believed in witches, ghosts, and other supernatural beings.
22. Medical care in Colonial America was primitive, and many people died from diseases that are now easily curable.
23. Colonial Americans were known for their love of alcohol, and rum was a particularly popular drink.
24. Slavery was a widespread institution in Colonial America, and enslaved Africans made up a significant portion of the population in the southern colonies.
25. Colonial America was a time of great intellectual ferment, and many important thinkers and writers emerged during this period.

These 50 facts provide just a glimpse into the rich and complex tapestry of Colonial America. By exploring these lesser-known aspects of history, we gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives of those who shaped the foundation of the United States. This journey into the past is not only educational but also deeply inspiring, reminding us of the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

If you are fascinated by Colonial America and want to delve deeper into its untold stories, we highly recommend the book "50 Things You Didn't Know About Colonial America" by Emily J. Salmon. This captivating book is filled with even more surprising facts and insights that will transport you back to this transformative era in American history.

As we reflect on the legacy of Colonial America, it is important to remember that this period was both a time of progress and a time of profound contradictions. While the colonies laid the groundwork for the United States, they also grappled with the challenges of slavery, religious intolerance, and political inequality. By understanding the complexities of this era, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the values and principles that have shaped our nation today.

50 Things You Didn't Know about Colonial America

by Claudia Dobson-Largie

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8007 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE