Which city in Virginia was the first permanent English colony in America?

Which city in Virginia was the first permanent English colony in America?

• A. Williamsburg
• B. Roanoke
• C. Jamestown
• D. Richmond

Answer: (C)

The key idea is distinguishing a lasting settlement from a failed, short-lived one. Jamestown, founded in 1607 by the Virginia Company of London along the James River in Virginia, became the first enduring English colony in America. Earlier ventures at Roanoke were attempts that ultimately did not endure, so they aren’t permanent settlements. Williamsburg and Richmond are later Virginia towns, not the first permanent colony. Thus, the city recognized as the first permanent English colony in America is Jamestown.

The key idea is distinguishing a lasting settlement from a failed, short-lived one. Jamestown, founded in 1607 by the Virginia Company of London along the James River in Virginia, became the first enduring English colony in America. Earlier ventures at Roanoke were attempts that ultimately did not endure, so they aren’t permanent settlements. Williamsburg and Richmond are later Virginia towns, not the first permanent colony. Thus, the city recognized as the first permanent English colony in America is Jamestown.