The Virginia Company Establishes Jamestown
Grade 8 history covers how the Virginia Company, a joint-stock company, funded the establishment of Jamestown in 1607 as England first permanent settlement in North America. Private investors pooled their money to fund the expedition, expecting profits from finding gold and valuable resources in the New World. Covered in IMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 8, Chapter 2: Colonial America.
Key Concepts
After Roanoke, England’s next attempt at colonization was funded by the Virginia Company . This was a joint stock company , meaning private investors pooled their money to pay for the expedition. These investors expected to make a profit from their investment.
In 1607, the company sent settlers to North America, where they established the Jamestown colony. The colonists' main goal was to find gold and other valuable resources. This would create wealth for the company and its shareholders back in England.
Common Questions
What was the Virginia Company?
The Virginia Company was a joint-stock company where private investors pooled money to fund England colonial ventures in America. In 1607, the company sent settlers who established Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement.
Why did the Virginia Company establish Jamestown?
The colonists main goal was to find gold and other valuable resources that would create wealth for the company and its shareholders back in England. Investors expected a profitable return on their investment.
What was the goal of English colonists at Jamestown?
The first English settlers at Jamestown aimed to find gold and valuable resources to profit the Virginia Company and its investors. Unlike religious colonists elsewhere, Jamestown was primarily a commercial venture.
Which textbook covers the Virginia Company and Jamestown for Grade 8?
This topic is in IMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 8, Chapter 2: Colonial America.
What grade level covers Jamestown founding?
The Virginia Company establishment of Jamestown is typically covered in Grade 8 US history.