Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

Which colony is often referred to as the first successful colony in the American territories?

1. Plymouth

2. Jamestown

3. Massachusetts Bay

4. Rhode Island

The correct answer is: Jamestown

Jamestown is recognized as the first successful permanent English settlement in the American territories, established in 1607 in Virginia. The reasons behind its success include its strategic location along the James River, which provided access to shipping and trade, and the leadership of figures such as Captain John Smith, who focused on the survival of the colony. The settlement also benefited from the cultivation of tobacco, which became a cash crop and significantly contributed to its economic sustainability. The establishment of Jamestown marked a pivotal moment in American history, setting the stage for further English colonization and the eventual development of the United States. It faced various hardships, including conflicts with Indigenous peoples, food shortages, and disease, but ultimately thrived due to its adaptability and resourcefulness.