Agriculture in Virginia, 1607-1699

A historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book details the development of agricultural practices in Virginia during the early colonial period, focusing on the years following the establishment of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America. Carrier explores the intersection between Native American farming methods and European agricultural traditions, analyzing how these influences shaped the early economy of Virginia. The book discusses the initial struggles of early settlers in Virginia to cultivate crops and the reliance on Native Americans for sustenance during famine periods. It covers the colonists’ challenges with land preparation, crop selection, and livestock management, reflecting on their eventual adoption of indigenous farming techniques and the significance of tobacco cultivation in establishing economic stability. Carrier emphasizes the evolution of agriculture in Virginia from its tumultuous beginnings to a burgeoning industry, highlighting how practices and lessons learned during these formative years contributed to the colony's success and set the stage for its future agricultural developments.