Subject
Virginia -- History -- Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775 Books
Best books
John Smith
The General Historie of Virginia, New England & the Summer Isles (Vol. I) Together with the True Travels, Adventures and Observations, and a Sea Grammar
"The General Historie of Virginia, New England & the Summer Isles (Vol. I)" by Captain John Smith is a historical account first published in 1624. This pioneering work chronicles the early English colonial efforts in North America and Bermuda under the London Company's administration. Written after Smith's controversial departure from Virginia, the book draws on both his experiences and others' accounts of events he didn't witness. The work includes the famous—and possibly embellished—story of Pocahontas saving Smith's life, a tale he had never mentioned before this publication.
Charles Campbell
History of the Colony and Ancient Dominion of Virginia
"History of the Colony and Ancient Dominion of Virginia" by Charles Campbell is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work explores the early history of Virginia, highlighting its significance among the Anglo-American colonies and documenting the numerous events and experiences that have shaped its development. The narrative addresses key figures and events, such as the early voyages of discovery and the establishment of settlements, providing insight into the social, cultural, and political backdrop of the region. At the start of the text, the author presents a preface that underscores the importance of preserving Virginia's history through careful documentation and analysis. The beginning of the book outlines the timeline of early exploration, detailing the expeditions of notable figures like Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Humphrey Gilbert. Additionally, it mentions conflicts with native populations and the establishment of settlements at places such as Roanoke, ultimately setting the stage for the challenges faced by early colonists as they navigated the complexities of survival and interaction with the indigenous peoples. The narrative, rich in detail, serves as a comprehensive introduction to the exploration and early days of English settlement in Virginia.
John Fiske
Old Virginia and Her Neighbours, Vol. 2 (of 2)
"Old Virginia and Her Neighbours, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by John Fiske is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the development of Virginia and its surrounding regions, focusing on significant events, societal shifts, and the influence of various groups, particularly the Cavaliers and their impact on the colony's growth. Through detailed analysis, Fiske unveils how Virginia's distinct social and political characteristics emerged, contrasting them with those of other colonies, especially New England. At the start of the work, Fiske lays the groundwork for understanding Virginia's environment and its appeal to settlers in the 17th century, notably during the coming of the Cavaliers after the execution of Charles I. He describes Virginia's resources, such as abundant agriculture and livestock, showcasing how it fostered a thriving community. Fiske also highlights misconceptions about the social structures of Virginia, particularly the distinctions between the Cavaliers and Roundheads, and discusses the demographic shifts influenced by immigration patterns. The opening thus sets a comprehensive stage for examining how these factors contributed to the shaping of Virginia's identity during a transformative period in American history.
Thomas Jefferson Wertenbaker
The Planters of Colonial Virginia
"The Planters of Colonial Virginia" by Thomas Jefferson Wertenbaker is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the economic and social structures of colonial Virginia, focusing particularly on the role and influence of small planters in shaping society. It likely delves into how these planters navigated the challenges of labor availability, agricultural practices, and the burgeoning tobacco industry in an evolving colonial landscape. The opening of the text sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of the early justification and establishment of English colonies in Virginia. Wertenbaker illustrates the hope that European immigrants had for a better life in the New World, fueled by letters describing the promise of cheap land and a prosperous lifestyle. However, he also highlights the ensuing struggles faced by these yeomen farmers as they faced competition from larger plantations that made use of slave labor, which threatened their economic independence. The text emphasizes the transition from a society dominated by independent small landowners to one increasingly reliant on slavery, discussing the significant implications for both white planters and enslaved Africans in the formation of colonial Virginia.
John Fiske
Old Virginia and Her Neighbours, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"Old Virginia and Her Neighbours, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by John Fiske is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work provides an in-depth exploration of Virginia's colonial history, beginning with Sir Walter Raleigh's expeditions and moving through to the time of George Washington and the French encroachment on English territory up to 1753. Fiske aims to illustrate the broader implications of Virginia's story within the context of American history, emphasizing its pivotal role in the development of the United States. At the start of the volume, the reader is introduced to the significance of early explorations, including the contributions of influential figures such as Raleigh and Hakluyt. The opening chapters discuss the motivations behind the discovery and settlement of America by the English, contrasting it with Spanish colonization efforts. Fiske reflects on the initial enthusiasm surrounding the New World and presents a narrative that sketches the early challenges, triumphs, and complex interactions between European settlers and Native Americans, setting the tone for the unfolding historical narrative that he will pursue throughout the work.
Wesley Frank Craven
The Virginia Company Of London, 1606-1624
"The Virginia Company of London, 1606-1624" by Wesley Frank Craven is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book outlines the history of the Virginia Company and its efforts in establishing the Jamestown colony, emphasizing the adventurers in England who fueled the enterprise. The narrative details the complexities of colonization and the interplay between commerce, exploration, and governance during this formative period of American history. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the founders of the Virginia Company, highlighting their ambitions and motivations for colonization. Craven delineates the contrasting experiences of the London and Plymouth adventurers, showcasing how the former's perseverance led to a stronger association with the Virginia project. Additionally, the narrative considers the challenges and strategic decisions that shaped early colonial governance, including the adventurers' efforts to balance profit with public responsibility and the intricate dynamics of leadership and support from London's merchants. This sets up a detailed exploration of the early years in Virginia and the pivotal events that would define the colony's fate.
Cerinda W. Evans
Some Notes on Shipbuilding and Shipping in Colonial Virginia
"Some Notes on Shipbuilding and Shipping in Colonial Virginia" by Cerinda W. Evans is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The work focuses on the development of shipbuilding and maritime practices in colonial Virginia, examining both indigenous and colonial approaches to watercraft. It aims to shed light on the significance of ships in transportation and trade during that period, emphasizing their role in sustaining the colonies. The opening of this historical account details the early watercraft present in Colonial Virginia, such as the dugout canoe used by Native Americans and various boats that settlers adapted for transport and trade. It explains the construction techniques for these vessels, particularly the dugout canoe, highlighting methods and tools used by both indigenous peoples and early colonists. The narrative then transitions into a description of ships that were integral to the colony's development, including the pinnace "Discovery" and the circumstances surrounding the shipwreck of the "Sea Venture", setting the stage for understanding the vital relationship between maritime activities and the growth of colonial society.
G. Melvin Herndon
Tobacco in Colonial Virginia "The Sovereign Remedy"
"Tobacco in Colonial Virginia" by G. Melvin Herndon is a historical account written in the late 20th century. This work delves into the pivotal role of tobacco cultivation and trade in shaping the economic and social landscape of Virginia from the early days of the Jamestown settlement. It focuses on key figures such as John Rolfe, who famously introduced tobacco cultivation to the English colonists, and examines the rise and expansion of the tobacco industry as a significant staple crop in the colony. The opening of the book provides a nuanced introduction to the history of tobacco in Virginia, tracing its origins from initial importation in England to its establishment as a cash crop in the colonies. It discusses early interactions with Indigenous peoples, specifically noting the cultivation practices they employed, and highlights John Rolfe’s successful experiment with Spanish tobacco seeds, which led to significant growth in Virginia's tobacco production. The narrative sets the context for the subsequent chapters by outlining the initial challenges colonists faced and their adaptation methods that helped transform tobacco into Virginia’s "sovereign remedy," underscoring its profound impact on the colony's development.
Charles E. Hatch
The First Seventeen Years: Virginia 1607-1624
"The First Seventeen Years: Virginia 1607-1624" by Charles E. Hatch Jr. is a historical account written in the late 20th century. This work chronicles the early years of the English colony in Virginia, focusing on the challenges, developments, and significant events that led to the establishment of Jamestown and the surrounding settlements. It is particularly relevant for readers interested in American history, colonial ventures, and the complex interactions between settlers and Native Americans. The opening of the book introduces the Virginia Company of London and its ambitious mission to create the first permanent English settlement in America. It details the arrival of settlers at Jamestown in May 1607, highlighting the pioneers, their motivations, and the immediate challenges they faced, including conflicts with Native Americans and struggles for survival in a new and often hostile environment. Additionally, it touches on the internal conflicts among the settlers themselves, as leadership disputes and differing objectives put the colony at risk. The narrative sets up a rich exploration of the subsequent years in Virginia, filled with hardship, growth, and the gradual adaptation to the new world.
Thomas Jefferson Wertenbaker
Virginia under the Stuarts 1607-1688
"Virginia Under the Stuarts 1607-1688" by Thomas Jefferson Wertenbaker is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book examines the colonial history of Virginia during the Stuart period, highlighting significant events and challenges faced by the settlers, particularly focusing on political structures and conflicts like Bacon's Rebellion. Wertenbaker utilizes extensive historical documents to support his analysis, aiming to elucidate the complexities of governance and societal issues in early Virginia. The opening of the work details the author’s meticulous research process, including his visits to the British Public Record Office in London where he gathered historical documents related to Virginia’s colonial history. Wertenbaker reflects on the profound difficulties the early settlers encountered, such as governmental discord, Indian hostilities, famine, and disease. He sets the stage for a detailed exploration of governance evolution, economic struggles, and social challenges, particularly leading up to Bacon’s Rebellion, emphasizing the intricate dynamics between leadership and the governed, and the underlying grievances that drove the colonists to revolt.
Thomas Jefferson Wertenbaker
Bacon's Rebellion, 1676
"Bacon's Rebellion, 1676" by Thomas J. Wertenbaker is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the events surrounding the rebellion led by Nathaniel Bacon against Governor Sir William Berkeley in Colonial Virginia. It delves into the socio-political tensions and grievances that fueled this conflict, highlighting issues of governance, corruption, and the struggles of ordinary colonists against an oppressive administration. The opening of the book sets the stage for the intricate dynamics of Virginia during the lead-up to Bacon's Rebellion. It illustrates the discontent among the colonists towards Governor Berkeley’s rule, marked by a concentration of power among his allies, excessive taxation without proper representation, and inequitable land distribution. Key figures, including Berkeley and Bacon himself, are introduced as catalysts for the impending conflict, alongside descriptions of the oppressive policies and socio-economic hardships that ignited the revolutionary spirit among the colony’s inhabitants. The narrative lays a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of the Rebellion as it unfolds throughout the rest of the text.
Walter Stitt Robinson
Mother Earth: Land Grants in Virginia, 1607-1699
"Mother Earth: Land Grants in Virginia, 1607-1699" by Walter Stitt Robinson is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The work examines the complex land grant system that shaped the settlement of Virginia from the beginnings of colonization to the end of the 17th century. The book delves into the motivations for land acquisition, the policies affecting land distribution, and the interactions between English colonists and Native American tribes, uncovering the origins of land ownership in America. The opening of this historical account discusses the significant motivations behind English colonization in Virginia, particularly the desire for land, which attracted various social classes from Europe. It highlights the pivotal role land played in shaping the American identity and explores the tensions arising from colonization, particularly in relation to Indigenous peoples. Robinson sets the stage for a deeper examination of land policies by introducing the initial presence of Native American tribes and the subsequent legal and moral dilemmas faced by British colonizers regarding land rights and sovereignty. This foundational context foreshadows an exploration of land grants and their implications on both the colonists and the Native populations.
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