Georgia Colony

James Oglethorpe

James Oglethorpe

In Between Spanish and English Territory

The colony of Georgia, located directly in between the English colony of South Carolina, and the Spanish colony of Florida, was the subject of frequent military invasions by both sides until the Yamassee War (1715-1716) left the area devoid of people.

A Debtor's Refuge

In 1732, James Oglethorpe received a royal charter for the Province of Georgia. It was named after King George II. Oglethorpe imagined the area as a refuge for England's poor people, who were crowded together in debtor's prisons. He believed the debtors would become farmers and possibly soldiers to defend the colony from the Spanish in Florida. In 1733, 116 settlers arrived in modern-day Savannah aboard the HMS ANNE. Georgia would become the last of the English colonies in the New World. Soon, immigrants throughout the world came to Georgia in the hopes of being awarded generous land grants and Georgia quickly become a major center for the export of rice, indigo, beef and pork.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why did James Oglethorpe want to start the colony of Georgia?
  2. Who were the settlers that came to Georgia, and what did they hope to find?
  3. How did Georgia become an important colony for trade?

Glossary

  • Charter – A legal document from a king or queen giving permission to start a colony.
  • Debtor – A person who owes money.
  • HMS Anne – The ship that carried the first Georgia settlers.
  • Indigo – A plant used to make blue dye.
  • Yamassee War – A conflict in the early 1700s between Native Americans and English settlers in the South.

In Between Spanish and English Territory

The colony of Georgia was located between Spanish Florida and English South Carolina. It was often invaded by both sides until the Yamassee War (1715–1716) left the area nearly empty.

A Debtor's Refuge

In 1732, James Oglethorpe received permission from the king to start the colony of Georgia. He wanted it to be a safe place for poor people in England who were in prison for debt. He hoped they could farm and protect the colony from the Spanish. In 1733, 116 settlers arrived in Savannah on the ship HMS Anne. Georgia became the last English colony in North America and grew quickly with new immigrants and rich farmland. The colony became known for exporting rice, indigo, beef, and pork.

The Spanish are Dispatched

In 1670, the first English settlement in South Carolina was founded at Albemarle Point. Many of the settlers came from Barbados, including Governor William Sayle. Before this, settlers wrote a document called the Fundamental Constitutions of Carolina, which helped guide early government.

 
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