Grades: 5-9
Length: 3/30 Minute
Rights: Annual Lease
This series examines in detail the events surrounding the establishment of each of England’s thirteen American colonies. The series examines the various reasons colonists came to each colony, how each colony grew, and how each one changed over time. Filming for this program was carried out over an eight-year period, both in England and in every one of the states that were once English colonies. As a result, a wealth of fascinating historical information is presented in rich visual detail.
Teacher Guides; Blackline Masters at http://www.unitedlearning.com
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Thursday 1/17/08 2:00-3:30 a.m. #1-3
1. The Middle Colonies. This program tells the stories of The Middle Colonies of New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. This region, which lies between the southern colonies and New England, was originally colonized by settlers from Holland and Sweden and was later seized by England so it has a distinct history. Slavery was not a big factor in the middle colonies, nor was Puritanism. Special emphasis in this program is given to William Penn, a man whose influence was felt in the development of three different colonies.
2. The New England Colonies. The New England Colonies of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island all share Puritan roots. This program examines the origins and beliefs of the Puritan religion. It also explains why Puritans were persecuted in England and why they wanted to settle in America. The circumstances surrounding the creation of each New England colony is detailed, but particular attention is given to the Pilgrims of Plymouth and the founding of Massachusetts. The many ways that Puritanism manifested itself in New England are described and the “Triangle Trade” is explained.
3. The Southern Colonies. The Southern Colonies of Virginia, Maryland, Georgia, and North and South Carolina were very distinct from England’s other American colonies because their economic success was based on slave labor. This program tells the stories of these colonies. Beginning with England’s first attempts at colonization on Roanoke Island in the 1580s, this program examines the motivations for founding each southern colony. The problems colonists faced in settling new territory and interactions with American Indians are detailed. The role of slavery, conflicts with Spain, colonial exports, and methods of government are also examined.