Introduction / Context:
The establishment of early colonies in North America by European powers shaped the later development of the United States and Canada. England created several settlements, some of which failed and others that survived and grew. This question asks for the name of the first permanent English colony on the mainland of North America, an important fact in general knowledge and school history that marks the beginning of sustained English presence in the region.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The focus is on English, not Spanish or French, colonisation.
- The question specifies the first permanent colony on the mainland of North America.
- The options list several well known settlements and places in North America.
- The learner is expected to distinguish between early failed attempts and the first lasting settlement.
Concept / Approach:
Jamestown, in what is now the state of Virginia, is widely recognised as the first permanent English colony in North America. Founded in 1607, it survived early hardships and became a base for English expansion. Earlier attempts, such as the Roanoke colony, failed and disappeared, while later settlements like Plymouth came after Jamestown. French colonies such as Quebec are important but were established by France, not England. Therefore, the correct approach is to select Jamestown as the first permanent English colony on the mainland.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Recall that Roanoke was an earlier English attempt at colonisation that failed and became known as the Lost Colony.
2. Remember that Jamestown, founded in 1607, endured and is considered the first permanent English settlement.
3. Note that Plymouth colony in present day Massachusetts was founded later, in 1620, by Pilgrim settlers.
4. Consider that New York began as a Dutch settlement called New Amsterdam and was not originally an English colony.
5. Recognise that Quebec was a French colony and therefore not the correct answer for an English colony question.
6. From the options, choose Jamestown as the first permanent English colony in North America.
Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, learners can think of standard history summaries which often state that Jamestown, Virginia, founded in 1607, was the first permanent English settlement in North America. Many textbooks contrast Jamestown with the failed Roanoke colony and then mention Plymouth as a later important settlement. Because the question explicitly asks for the first colony established by the English that lasted, Jamestown stands out as the correct choice and is used as such in general knowledge question banks.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Plymouth was an English settlement but was founded later in 1620, so it cannot be the first permanent colony.
Roanoke was an earlier English attempt but ultimately failed and disappeared, which means it is not classified as a permanent colony.
New York began under Dutch control as New Amsterdam and only later came under English rule, so it was not initially an English colony.
Quebec was founded by the French and represents the beginning of French, not English, colonisation in Canada.
Common Pitfalls:
Students may confuse Roanoke and Jamestown or think of Plymouth because of its famous story about the Pilgrims and Thanksgiving. Others may choose New York simply because they know it is a major city today without considering its colonial origins. To avoid these mistakes, it is useful to remember the sequence: failed Roanoke, then permanent Jamestown in 1607, followed by Plymouth in 1620. This sequence makes Jamestown clearly stand out as the first permanent English colony on the North American mainland.
Final Answer:
The correct answer is
Jamestown.
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