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Our friend Liberty has some interesting things to say about the original 13 colonies and one event in particular that changed the course of American history.
One of the most important foundations for the Original Colonies was liberty! We will see in our next courses liberty is something that must be earned and protected. Our friend Liberty has some interesting things to say about the original 13 colonies and one event in particular that changed the course of American History for all of the colonies. As we learn about how the first colonies were created, always remember that they were designed to give the colonists the freedom to worship, govern, and live their lives.
Let’s Think | What would your town be like?
There were many reasons that people decided to move to America and live in the original colonies. One reason was that most people in England were farmers who rented plots of land from the nobles (or rich) who owned the land. But England during this time was changing. Landowners made more money raising sheep and cattle than renting it to farmers. As a result, many of the farmers were forced from their homes. For them, America was the only opportunity to prosper as a farmer.
Besides farmers and tradespeople, others came to the colonies in search of religious freedom. In Europe, each nation had an official state church. Everybody had to attend church, and those who refused were sometimes sent to prison. Religious dissenters voyaged to America to practice their faith as they wanted.
Let’s Reflect
Imagine for a moment that you are starting a brand-new town in a new and relatively unknown place. Think about the things that you would need to make the town grow and attract more people to want to live there and visit. Now, make a list.
Think about these questions as you consider what your town may need:
- Where would you locate this town? In what part of the country?
- How will you feed everyone in your town?
- Do you think it is a good idea to start your town near water? Why or why not?
- How will you decide what rules and laws everyone is going to follow
- What will be the name of your town?
to have faith to help you carry on. Let’s explore how the colonists showed faith while starting the 13 colonies.