Exploring the 13 Original Colonies of the U.S.

Which was the first permanent American colony?

• Massachusetts

• Virginia

• New York

• Maryland

Answer explanation

The correct choice is Virginia as it was the first permanent American colony established in 1607.

Who founded Massachusetts?

• Quakers

• The Pilgrims

• Puritans

• The Dutch

Answer explanation

The Pilgrims founded Massachusetts, not the Quakers, Puritans, or the Dutch.

What was New York originally called?

• New Hartford

• New London

• New Plymouth

• New Amsterdam

Answer explanation

New York was originally called New Amsterdam before it was renamed by the British to New York.

Which colony was known for being home to Puritans, Quakers, and mostly Catholics?

• Rhode Island

• Connecticut

• Delaware

• Maryland

Answer explanation

Maryland was known for being home to Puritans, Quakers, and mostly Catholics, making it the correct choice.

What was the original name of Rhode Island according to the Dutch?

• Orange Island

• Blue Island

• Green Island

• Red Island

Answer explanation

The original name of Rhode Island according to the Dutch was 'Red Island', making it the correct choice.

Which two colonies were originally one before 1712?

• Delaware and Pennsylvania

• North and South Dakota

• North and South Carolina

• New Hampshire and Vermont

Answer explanation

The correct choice is North and South Carolina because they were originally one colony before 1712, then split into two separate colonies.

Who was Pennsylvania granted to?

• Henry Hudson

• William Penn

• George Washington

• John Smith

Answer explanation

Pennsylvania was granted to William Penn, making him the correct choice among the options provided.

What was the primary purpose of establishing Georgia?

• As a military base

• As a trading post with the Spanish

• As a penal colony for English debtors

• As a religious sanctuary

Answer explanation

Georgia was established as a penal colony for English debtors, providing a fresh start for those in debt.

When did Spain relinquish control of Florida to the United States?

• 1845

• 1776

• 1821

• 1800

Answer explanation

Spain relinquished control of Florida to the United States in 1821, making the correct answer choice 1821.

_____ was the birthplace of the American iron industry.

• Georgia

• Massachusetts

• Pennsylvania

• Virginia

Answer explanation

One of the main products manufactured by the Saugus Works was small pieces of iron that could be used to make nails for construction, according to University of Houston historian and engineer John H. Leonard. It was the start of a colonial iron industry that spawned 175 different plants across the 13 colonies and produced a product that was so sought after in England that officials there eliminated customs duties in 1750.