The 13 Original Colonies: An Overview — Reading Comprehension

The 13 colonies were the first states of what would become the United States. People from England, France, and other countries sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to start new lives. They wanted freedom, land, and new opportunities. The first colony was Virginia, founded in 1607. Over the next 125 years, twelve more colonies formed along the East Coast.

Life in the colonies was not easy. Settlers faced cold winters, hunger, and sickness. They built homes, grew food, and worked together to survive. Sometimes, they traded with Native American tribes for food and help. Each colony had its own government and laws. Some colonies were started for religious freedom, like Massachusetts, while others, like Georgia, were started for protection and trade.

As time passed, the colonies grew bigger. More people arrived, and towns became cities. The colonists began to feel different from people in England. They wanted to make their own rules and govern themselves. Leaders like Benjamin Franklin and George Washington helped bring people together. Colonists often said, "No taxation without representation," because they did not want to pay taxes to England without having a say.

The colonies worked as a team when problems with England became too great. They sent leaders to meet in Philadelphia in 1774. This meeting, called the First Continental Congress, was the start of the colonies working together for freedom. Soon, the colonies would become the United States of America.

Interesting Fact: The colony of Rhode Island was the first to promise complete religious freedom to everyone.

Which was the first colony?

Why did settlers leave England?

What city hosted the First Continental Congress?

Why did colonists feel different from England?

How did colonists survive tough times?

What was special about Rhode Island?

The First Continental Congress met in 1774.

What does 'representation' mean?