Women in Colonial America

Throughout most of history women generally have had fewer legal rights and career opportunities than men. Wifehood and motherhood were regarded as women's most significant professions. Since early times women have been uniquely viewed as a creative source of human life. Historically, however, they have been considered not only intellectually inferior to men but also a major source of temptation and evil. Colonial women faced the harsh realities of childbirth, housework, and serving their husbands because it was tradition. The ways of the ‘old country’ culture was forced upon a new one, disallowing any room for new ideals. Although constrained by society Colonial women have had their part in shaping America. European nations came to the Americas to increase their wealth and broaden their influence over world affairs. The Spanish were among the first Europeans to explore the ‘New World’ and the first to settle in the present-day United States. By 1650, however, England had established a dominant presence on the Atlantic coast. Propelling the English settlers were various factors including: establishment of bases for commerce raiding, discovery and development of resources, improve England’s future greatness, establish new means of commerce, and extend the power of the English church. Marking the beginning of English exploration and colonization, Sir Walter Raleigh led the first expedition to North America in 1584 . Raleigh sent Philip Armadas and Arthur Barlowe to North America to find a suitable place to settle. They arrived at Roanoke and upon returning to England described it as a “Garden of Eden” to Queen Elizabeth thus convincing the Queen of Roanoke’s many opportunities and beautiful vista. In 1585, the first settlement attempt (and failure) at Roanoke was made by Richard Grenville and Ralph Lane. This was followed by John White’s settlement, later to become known as “The Lost Colony” . After two failing attempts of colonizing America the English finally

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