Colonial Life in Virginia

Which statement best explains why many Virginia planters grew tobacco before the American Revolution?

• It required few workers and improved the soil.

• It was the crop most Virginians grew and sold to English and Scottish merchants.

• It could not be exported to Europe and the West Indies.

• It had no competition from other colonies.

Toward the end of the eighteenth century, why did many Virginia farmers begin growing grains like wheat, oats, and corn instead of tobacco?

• Grains needed more workers and depleted soil faster.

• Grains needed fewer workers, did not deplete soil and were in demand.

• Tobacco was made illegal to grow in Virginia.

• Grains could not be stored as long as tobacco.

Which pairing correctly matches a Virginia farm animal with a common use described in the reading?

• Oxen — raised for eggs

• Sheep — source of wool for yarn and cloth

• Chickens — used to pull carts and wagons

• Cows — primarily raised for soap

What was the Middle Passage described as in the text?

• A seasonal route used by free black traders in Virginia

• The overland march from African villages to coastal forts

• The Atlantic voyage in cramped slave ships where many died from mistreatment and disease

• The process of seasoning new slaves to Virginia’s climate

Which statement best reflects the status of black people in Virginia by 1782, according to the passage?

• All black Virginians were enslaved until the Civil War

• A few thousand free black people lived and worked, some owning property and even slaves

• Free black Virginians could not work as farmers or tradesmen

• Most enslaved people gained freedom through church membership