What was the first permanent English colony in America?

The first permanent English colony in America was Jamestown, established in 1607 in Virginia. This colony was significant because it marked the beginning of sustained English settlement in the New World, securing a foothold that would lead to further colonization. Jamestown was crucial for several reasons, including the introduction of tobacco cultivation, which became a profitable cash crop and significantly contributed to the economy of the colony and eventually the southern colonies. Additionally, Jamestown’s establishment paved the way for future English colonies and the expansion of English influence in North America.

In contrast, Plymouth, founded by the Pilgrims in 1620, was a later settlement, and while it is often recognized for its historical importance, especially in relation to early American ideals of democracy and self-governance, it was not the first permanent one. Roanoke, known as the "Lost Colony," was established in the late 1580s but was abandoned and never permanently occupied. Philadelphia, founded in 1682, was key for its role as a center of innovation and governance but came much later in the timeline of English colonization in America. Thus, Jamestown stands out for its significance as the first lasting English colony.