1600-1700 United States

Establishment of Jamestown

1607

England establishes the first permanent settlement in North America when 104 men arrived in what is now Jamestown, Virginia.

First African Slaves Arrive in North America

1619

African slaves arrive in Jamestown, Virginia. They are the first African slaves to arrive in English colonies.

House of Burgesses is Formed

Jul 30, 1619

This was the first popularly elected body of power in the New World. The House of Burgesses is formed in Jamestown, Virginia.

Mayflower Compact

Nov 21, 1620

The Mayflower Compact was a set of rules for self-governing written by the Pilgrims when they arrived in the New World. The compact called for self-governing while still being loyal to the English throne.

Boston is Renamed

Sep 7, 1630

Trimountaine is renamed Boston after a city in England where a few prominent colonists were from. Boston grew as colonists looked for freshwater sources from Charlestown.

Maryland Toleration Act

Apr 21, 1649

This act called for more religious freedoms in the British colonies. The act was passed in St. Mary's City by the assembly of the Maryland colony.

England gains New York as a Colony

1664

England takes New Amsterdam from the Dutch and renames it New York.

Founding of Charles Town

1670

Modern-day Charleston, South Carolina is founded as Charles Town after the current King, Charles II.

William Penn establishes Pennsylvania

1681

William Penn receives a royal charter from Charles II to establish Pennsylvania as a colony for persecuted Quackers.

Capital of Virginia is Moved

1699

The Capital of the colony of Virginia moves from Jamestown to Williamsburg. Jamestown is then abandoned.