Unit 2A: Early and Colonial Georgia Worksheet
Unit 2 Lesson 4: The Spanish, French, and English in America
Hernando de Soto’s explorations in Georgia
Who was involved?
- Hernando de Soto (Spanish explorer and conquistador)
- Native American tribes such as the Muscogee (Creek) and Cherokee
- Spanish soldiers and explorers
What happened?
Hernando de Soto led an expedition through the southeastern United States, including present-day Georgia, in search of gold and wealth. He encountered various Native American tribes, often leading to conflicts, and marked the first significant European exploration of the region.
Where did the event take place?
The exploration took place across present-day Georgia, primarily in areas near the Chattahoochee River and the coastal plains.
What region(s) of Georgia did the event take place in?
- Piedmont region
- Coastal Plains region
When did the event take place?
1540-1542
Why is this event important to Georgia’s history?
De Soto’s expeditions led to increased European awareness of the area now known as Georgia and initiated further exploration and colonization efforts by other European powers. His interactions with Native American tribes had lasting implications, often leading to conflict and the eventual decline of indigenous populations.
Unit 2 Lesson 5: Settling Georgia and the Charter of 1732
The Charter of 1732
Who was involved?
- King George II of Britain
- James Oglethorpe (founder of Georgia)
- Trustees of the Georgia colony
- Settlers and immigrants (debtors, the poor)
What happened?
The Charter of 1732 was signed by King George II, granting the establishment of the colony of Georgia. It aimed to provide a new beginning for the impoverished and to act as a buffer against Spanish Florida. The charter established rules for the colony, including restrictions on slavery and land ownership.
Where did the event take place?
The event took place in England (where the charter was signed) and later in the region designated as the colony of Georgia.
What region(s) of Georgia did the event take place in?
Initial settlements were primarily in the Coastal Plains region and later expanded into the Piedmont region.
When did the event take place?
1732
Why is this event important to Georgia’s history?
The Charter of 1732 laid the foundation for the establishment of Georgia as a colony, influencing its development, governance, and demographic make-up, while setting it apart from other colonies with its unique laws regarding land and slavery.
Unit 2 Lesson 6: Savannah and Early Life in Georgia
James Oglethorpe arriving in Georgia and founding Savannah
Who was involved?
- James Oglethorpe (founder of Savannah and the colony)
- Early settlers (debtors, religious refugees)
- Native American tribes (like the Yamacraw)
What happened?
James Oglethorpe arrived at the site of present-day Savannah in 1733 and established the first settlement. He negotiated with Native American leaders, particularly Tomochichi of the Yamacraw, to peacefully settle the area and designed Savannah with a unique town layout that promoted defense and community.
Where did the event take place?
The event took place at the Savannah River in present-day Savannah, Georgia.
What region(s) of Georgia did the event take place in?
- Coastal Plains region
When did the event take place?
1733
Why is this event important to Georgia’s history?
The founding of Savannah marked the beginning of the Georgia colony. Its establishment as a planned city was innovative for the time and served as a strategic and cultural center for the colony, influencing its growth and development.
Unit 2 Lesson 9: Georgia Becomes a Royal Colony
Georgia becoming a Royal Colony after the Charter ends
Who was involved?
- British government
- Georgia's settlers
- Trustees of the colony
What happened?
After the initial charter expired in 1752, Georgia transitioned from a trustee-managed colony to a royal colony under direct control of the British crown. This change allowed more autonomy for residents but also imposed stricter regulations and the legalization of slavery.
Where did the event take place?
The event took place in the colony of Georgia, particularly in Savannah as the administrative center.
What region(s) of Georgia did the event take place in?
- Coastal Plains region
- Piedmont region
When did the event take place?
1752
Why is this event important to Georgia’s history?
Becoming a royal colony allowed Georgia to benefit from more extensive commerce and governance. The shift facilitated the growth of plantation agriculture and increased the importation of slaves, which had long-term effects on Georgia’s economy and society.
What were the Cash Crops during the Colonial Period? WRIST
W: Wheat
R: Rice
I: Indigo
S: Sugarcane
T: Tobacco
This cash crop system was crucial for the economy of Georgia and its colonies, driving trade and settlement patterns.
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