The Charter of 1732
Who was involved? Think about the people or groups who were involved and affected by this event.
The Charter of 1732 refers to the document that granted the Province of Georgia to a group of trustees led by English philanthropist James Oglethorpe. Several people and groups were involved and affected by this event, including:
1. James Oglethorpe: Oglethorpe was a British military officer and philanthropist who played a crucial role in the founding of Georgia. He led the group of trustees who were granted the charter and was responsible for overseeing the establishment and development of the colony.
2. The Trustees: The Trustees for the Establishment of the Colony of Georgia in America were the group of individuals who were granted the charter and entrusted with the responsibility of governing and developing the colony. They were appointed by King George II and included prominent figures such as Oglethorpe, General Edward Gordon, and others.
3. King George II: As the reigning monarch of England at the time, King George II granted the charter to the trustees. He supported the establishment of Georgia as a buffer colony to protect the South Carolina colony against Spanish invasions from Florida.
4. Indigenous Peoples: The establishment of Georgia and subsequent colonization by British settlers had a significant impact on the indigenous peoples of the region. Native American tribes such as the Creek, Cherokee, and Yuchi were already living in the area and were affected by the presence and expansion of the British colonists.
5. British Settlers: The charter paved the way for British settlers to establish a new colony in Georgia. The trustees intended for the colony to serve as a refuge for Britain's imprisoned debtors and a fresh start for the poor. The settlers who migrated to Georgia were motivated by hopes of a better life and opportunities for land ownership.
6. Debtors and Indentured Servants: A significant group affected by the charter were debtors, both from Britain and other American colonies. They saw the opportunity to escape their financial burdens and gain a fresh start in Georgia. Indentured servants, who agreed to work for a specific period in exchange for passage to the colony, were also involved.
7. Spanish and French Colonists: The presence of Georgia as a British colony impacted the Spanish and French colonies in the region. The Spanish, who controlled Florida, viewed Georgia as a threat and engaged in skirmishes with British settlers. The French, who had established colonies in Louisiana, had territorial disputes with the British in the area.
In summary, the individuals and groups involved and affected by the Charter of 1732 included James Oglethorpe and the trustees, King George II, indigenous peoples, British settlers, debtors, indentured servants, and Spanish and French colonists.