Survival in the Early American Colonies: Jamestown & Plymouth
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This reading comprehension worksheet explores the challenges faced by the early settlers in Jamestown and Plymouth, focusing on their strategies for survival and the difficulties they encountered.
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Survival in the Early American Colonies: Jamestown & Plymouth
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Introduction to the Early Colonies
Source A: Journal Entry from a Jamestown Settler
'The first months were filled with struggle. Our food was scarce, and disease spread quickly among us.' Provenance: Diary of John Doe, a Jamestown settler, 1607.
Source B: Plymouth Colony Records
'The Pilgrims faced many hardships, but through cooperation and faith, they managed to survive the first winter.' Provenance: Plymouth Colony archives, 1620.
Strategies for Survival
Source C: Native American Assistance
'The Wampanoag people taught the Pilgrims how to grow crops like corn and hunt effectively, which was vital for their survival.' Provenance: Wampanoag oral history, 1621.
Source D: Jamestown's Leadership
'Captain John Smith imposed strict discipline and organized new methods of food procurement, which improved our chances of survival.' Provenance: Jamestown official reports, 1608.
Relationships with Native Americans
Source E: Treaty of 1621
'The Wampanoag and Pilgrims agreed to coexist peacefully and share resources.' Provenance: Colonial treaties archive.
Source F: Conflict in Jamestown
'Tensions with local tribes led to violent clashes, making survival even harder.' Provenance: Jamestown conflict records, 1609.
Conclusion
In summary, the survival of the early American colonies depended on a combination of factors including leadership, Native American assistance, community cooperation, and overcoming environmental challenges. The differences in their approaches and relationships significantly influenced their success or struggles during the initial years.
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Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet