Unit 2 Lesson 6: Savannah and Early Life in Georgia
Who was involved?
The key figures involved in the establishment of Savannah and early life in Georgia included James Oglethorpe, the founder of the Georgia Colony; the early settlers, many of whom were indebted or seeking a new start; Native American tribes such as the Muscogee (Creek) and Cherokee who inhabited the region; and enslaved Africans, who played a significant role in the agricultural development of the colony.
What happened?
Savannah was founded in 1733 by James Oglethorpe as the first settlement of the Georgia Colony. Oglethorpe aimed to create a colony that would serve as a buffer from Spanish Florida and provide a place for the poor and indebted of England to have a fresh start. The layout of Savannah was unique and carefully planned, featuring a grid system with squares for public use. The colony's economy initially relied on agriculture, and over time, it became increasingly reliant on slave labor.
Where did the event take place?
The event took place in the city of Savannah, which is located in the southeastern part of Georgia along the Savannah River.
What region(s) of Georgia did the event take place in?
The establishment of Savannah primarily took place in the Coastal Plain region of Georgia, which is characterized by its low-lying topography and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
When did the event take place?
Savannah was founded in 1733, making it one of the earliest settlements in the colony of Georgia.
Why is this event important to Georgia’s history?
The founding of Savannah is significant to Georgia's history for several reasons: it marked the beginning of the Georgia Colony, which offered an alternative to the brutal systems of existing colonies; it established a social experiment in which the poor and indebted could find a new life; and it set the stage for the development of the plantation economy that would dominate Georgia's economy in the years to come. Additionally, Savannah's unique urban planning and architecture would influence city designs throughout the American South. The city's founding also initiated complex relationships between European settlers and Native American tribes, which would shape the region's future.
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