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During this early period Virginia's population grew with the introduction of settlers and servants into the burgeoning plantation economy. Land from the Native Americans was appropriated by force and treaty, including the Treaty of 1677, which made the signatory tribes tributary states. In 1619 the House of Burgesses was established as the colony's elected governance, and African servants were first introduced, with slavery being codified in 1661.

Early Settlers

During this early period Virginia's population grew with the introduction of settlers and servants into…

Benjamin Franklin (January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790) was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America. A noted polymath, Franklin was a leading author and printer, satirist, political theorist, politician, scientist, inventor, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. As a scientist, he was a major figure in the Enlightenment and the history of physics for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity. He invented the lightning rod, bifocals, the Franklin stove, a carriage odometer, and the glass harmonica. He formed both the first public lending library in America and first fire department in Pennsylvania.

Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin (January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790) was one of the Founding Fathers of the United…

Newspapers and speakers especially condemned the "land embargo" — the cutting-off trade with Canada. The trade so suddenly thrown into confusion by it was represented in a caricature by a bewildered serpent which had been suddenly stopped in its movements by two trees, marked, respectively, "Embargo" and "Non-Importation Act." The wondering snake is puzzled to know what has happened, and the head cries out, "What's the matter, tail?" The latter answers, "I can't get out." A cock, representing France, stands by, joyfully.

Non Importation Act

Newspapers and speakers especially condemned the "land embargo" — the cutting-off trade with Canada.…

The Colonial Seal of Virginia. An Indian kneels before a prominent royal figure.

Colonial Seal of Virginia

The Colonial Seal of Virginia. An Indian kneels before a prominent royal figure.

Although he did not explicitly seek the office of commander and even claimed that he was not equal to it, there was no serious competition. Congress created the Continental Army on June 14, 1775; the next day, on the nomination of John Adams of Massachusetts, Washington was appointed Major General and elected by Congress to be Commander-in-chief.

Washington Taking Command of the Army

Although he did not explicitly seek the office of commander and even claimed that he was not equal to…

Potter designs a jar with the White House turned upside down and the United Mexico of America at the bottom.

White House Turned Upside Down

Potter designs a jar with the White House turned upside down and the United Mexico of America at the…