The first colonists were ill equipped for the difficult life that awaited them in Virginia. It was originally conceived of as an economie venture. They counted on meeting Native peoples
willing to supply them with trade goods (furs and skins as well as valuable minerals such as
gold, silver, copper, and iron ore) from the interior of Virginia as well as food. The physical
challenges of living here also took their toll. The surrounding low, marsh area was infested
with mosquitoes and other airborne pests. Many colonists died of disease and starvation.