Early Inhabitants and European Contact

Before Europeans arrived, North Carolina was home to Native American tribes such as the Cherokee, Tuscarora, and Catawba. In 1587, English settlers sponsored by Sir Walter Raleigh attempted to establish the first English colony in the New World at Roanoke Island. This colony later became known as the "Lost Colony" because its fate remains a mystery.

The Mystery of the Lost Colony - NPS video

Colonial and Revolutionary Period

During the 18th and early 19th centuries, North Carolina developed a strong agricultural economy based on tobacco and cotton. The state was also known for producing naval stores like tar, pitch, and turpentine. North Carolina played an important role in the American Revolution, hosting key battles such as Kings Mountain and Guilford Courthouse.

Civil War and Reconstruction

As the Civil War approached, North Carolina faced divided loyalties between Northern economic ties and Southern cultural ties. The state seceded from the Union in 1861 and joined the Confederacy. Wilmington, an important Confederate port, was among the last to fall in 1865. After the war, the state worked to rebuild its economy and society.

Industrial Growth and Innovation

After Reconstruction, North Carolina's economy shifted from agriculture to manufacturing, becoming a leader in textiles, furniture, and tobacco. In 1903, the Wright Brothers achieved the first successful powered flight at Kitty Hawk, marking a milestone in aviation history.

Wright Brothers

Modern Development

In the 20th century, North Carolina grew into a center for higher education and scientific research, particularly with the development of Research Triangle Park. Today, the state remains a hub of innovation, culture, and progress, continuing its legacy as a vital part of the United States.

Discussion Questions

1. Why was the Lost Colony at Roanoke significant in American history?
2. How did North Carolina’s economy change after the Civil War?
3. What role did North Carolina play in both the American Revolution and the Civil War?
4. Why was the Wright Brothers' flight in North Carolina so important to history?

Glossary

• Naval stores: Materials like tar, pitch, and turpentine used to build and maintain ships.
• Secede: To formally withdraw from a political union or organization.
• Confederacy: The group of Southern states that seceded from the Union during the Civil War.
• Research Triangle Park: A major center for research and development in North Carolina.

Five Interesting Facts

1. North Carolina was home to the mysterious "Lost Colony" at Roanoke Island in 1587.
2. The state was a key producer of naval stores essential for wooden ships.
3. The Battle of Kings Mountain, fought in North Carolina, was a turning point in the Revolutionary War.
4. The Wright Brothers' first powered flight took place at Kitty Hawk in 1903.
5. North Carolina is now known for its universities and Research Triangle Park, a leader in innovation.

Timeline of North Carolina History

1. Pre-1500s: Cherokee, Tuscarora, and Catawba tribes inhabit the region.
2. 1587: Roanoke Colony established (Lost Colony).
3. 1700s: North Carolina becomes a center for agriculture and naval stores.
4. 1780: Battle of Kings Mountain.
5. 1781: Battle of Guilford Courthouse.
6. 1861: North Carolina secedes from the Union.
7. 1865: Wilmington falls, signaling the end for Confederate supply lines.
8. Late 1800s: State shifts to manufacturing textiles, furniture, and tobacco.
9. 1903: Wright Brothers' first flight at Kitty Hawk.
10. 1950s: Research Triangle Park established, boosting science and technology.
11. Today: North Carolina is a center for education, research, and industry.