John Smith

Definition

John Smith was an English soldier, explorer, and author who played a crucial role in the establishment of the Jamestown Colony in Virginia, the first permanent English settlement in North America. His leadership and promotional efforts were vital in shaping early colonial industries and agriculture, as he emphasized the importance of trade, agriculture, and survival skills among settlers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Smith was instrumental in the survival of the Jamestown Colony during its early years, establishing strict rules for discipline and work.
2. He is credited with fostering relationships with local Native American tribes, particularly with Pocahontas and her father, Chief Powhatan.
3. Smith's writings and maps provided valuable information about the New World, attracting more settlers and investors to Virginia.
4. He famously declared that 'he who will not work shall not eat,' emphasizing the need for cooperation and productivity among colonists.
5. After returning to England due to injury, Smith continued to advocate for colonization and exploration, writing extensively about his experiences.

Review Questions

• How did John Smith's leadership style contribute to the survival and success of the Jamestown Colony?
  • John Smith's leadership style was characterized by strict discipline and a focus on hard work. He established essential rules that ensured settlers contributed to their own survival, famously stating 'he who will not work shall not eat.' This approach fostered a sense of responsibility among the colonists and helped create a more organized community focused on agriculture and trade, which were vital for Jamestown's sustainability.
• In what ways did John Smith's interactions with Native American tribes impact the development of early colonial industries and agriculture?
  • John Smith's interactions with Native American tribes were pivotal for the Jamestown Colony. By establishing alliances, especially with Pocahontas and her father, Chief Powhatan, he was able to secure essential resources and knowledge about local agriculture. This exchange not only improved relations but also provided colonists with critical insights into cultivating crops like corn and tobacco, ultimately aiding in the colony's economic development.
• Evaluate John Smith's contributions to colonial literature and how his writings influenced perceptions of New World exploration during his time.
  • John Smith's contributions to colonial literature are significant as they shaped contemporary views on exploration and colonization. His detailed accounts of life in Jamestown and his adventurous narratives captivated audiences back in England, fostering interest in North American colonization. Through his writings, he portrayed both the challenges and opportunities present in the New World, inspiring further expeditions and investment in colonies while also influencing how future generations viewed early American history.

Related terms

Jamestown: The first permanent English settlement in North America, established in 1607, which faced many struggles but laid the groundwork for future colonies.

Tobacco:

A cash crop that became the cornerstone of Virginia's economy, significantly impacting colonial agriculture and trade in the early 1600s.

Virginia Company: A joint-stock company chartered by King James I in 1606 to establish settlements in North America, leading to the founding of Jamestown.