The History of Virginia

Virginia marks many historic events. The state played a key role in the American Revolution and Civil War and is known as the Mother of Presidents due to the birth of eight U.S. presidents there. In 1607, Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in North America established by the Virginia Company. In 1624 Virginia became a royal colony under the British crown. The Capital was moved from Jamestown to Williamsburg in 1698. The colony suffered conflict with the Powhatan Confederacy including a war in 1609-1614. In 1775, Virginia declared independence from Britain before the Declaration of Independence. In 1861-1865, Virginia became the capital of the Confederacy and many Civil War battles are fought in this state. There was a reconstruction period where Virginia faced challenges related to transitioning from slavery to a free labor system. During the 19th and 20th century, Virginia experiences a period of political and economic change including the rise of the Jim Crow laws and Civil Rights Movement. The state continues to evolve with developments in technology and culture. Virginia is known for eight U.S. presidents being born there such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and others.