In December 1609, a fleet commanded by Sir Thomas Gates set out from Plymouth, England, carrying 500 settlers, food, arms, and equipment to Jamestown, only to meet disaster.
[3] James City's survival was profoundly influential to America future as it allowed Virginia to emerge as the richest and most populous of the British mainland colonies with the first English language, law, institution, and Protestant Church.
It blossomed into a vibrant political culture in Jamestown in 1619, even compared to other British colonies, which led in time to new republican ideals that found their fulfillment in the foundation of United States.
[4] Conflict between the colony and the Powhatan Indians lead to bloodshed, increasing the mortality rate that was already high due to disease and starvation.
During the conflict, Pocahontas was kidnapped and made an uneasy truce with her father, Powhatan, which brought short peace between the tribe and settlers.
This event combined with the subsequent high death rate in 1622–1623, caused it to lose its rule and ended the company.
[2] After Bacon's Rebellion, the demand for more workers was required, so Jamestown brought over Africans from Africa to be sold for labor.