The period of time in American history from the establishment of the first English colony at Jamestown in 1607 to the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It encompasses the founding and development of the original thirteen colonies.
Related terms
Plymouth Colony: One of the earliest successful English settlements in North America, founded by Pilgrims in 1620 seeking religious freedom.
Virginia House of Burgesses: The first democratically elected legislative body established in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1619.
Triangular Trade: A system of trade between Europe, Africa, and the Americas that involved the exchange of goods, including slaves.