The Georgia 1790 map is a significant historical document that showcases the state's territorial boundaries, geographical features, and settlements during the late 18th century. Created in 1790, this map provides valuable insights into the state's development, including its colonial past, the impact of the American Revolution, and the early years of the United States as a newly independent nation.
Historical Context
The late 18th century was a transformative period for Georgia, marked by significant events that shaped the state’s history. In 1788, Georgia ratified the United States Constitution, becoming the fourth state to join the Union. The state’s economy was primarily based on agriculture, with cotton, tobacco, and rice being major crops. The Georgia 1790 map reflects the state’s growing population, with an estimated 82,000 inhabitants, including both Native American tribes and European-American settlers.
Geographical Features
The 1790 map of Georgia highlights the state’s diverse geography, featuring the Appalachian Mountains in the north, the Piedmont region, and the Coastal Plain. The map also shows the major rivers, including the Savannah, Ogeechee, and Altamaha, which played a crucial role in the state’s early development. These waterways facilitated trade, transportation, and the establishment of settlements, contributing to the growth of cities like Savannah and Augusta.
| Geographical Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Appalachian Mountains | Mountain range in northern Georgia, stretching into neighboring states |
| Piedmont Region | Plateau region in central Georgia, characterized by rolling hills and fertile soil |
| Coastal Plain | Low-lying coastal region, featuring marshes, swamps, and beaches along the Atlantic Ocean |
Settlements and Infrastructure
The 1790 map of Georgia shows the location of various settlements, including towns, cities, and forts. Savannah, founded in 1733, was the largest city in the state, serving as a major port and commercial center. Other notable settlements included Augusta, Ebenezer, and Louisville, which would eventually become the state capital. The map also highlights the network of roads, trails, and waterways that connected these settlements, facilitating trade, communication, and the movement of people.
Native American Tribes
The Georgia 1790 map acknowledges the presence of Native American tribes, including the Creek, Cherokee, and Choctaw. These tribes had inhabited the region for centuries, with their own distinct cultures, languages, and traditions. The map reflects the complex relationships between European-American settlers and Native American tribes, including trade, conflict, and the impact of disease and displacement on indigenous populations.
- Creek Nation: A confederacy of tribes inhabiting the region, with their own distinct culture and traditions
- Cherokee Nation: A tribe located in northern Georgia, known for their skilled hunters and traders
- Choctaw Nation: A tribe inhabiting the southwestern region of Georgia, with their own language and customs
What is the significance of the Georgia 1790 map?
+The Georgia 1790 map is significant because it provides a snapshot of the state's territorial boundaries, geographical features, and settlements during a pivotal period in American history. It offers insights into the state's development, including its colonial past, the impact of the American Revolution, and the early years of the United States as a newly independent nation.
What were the main geographical features of Georgia in 1790?
+The main geographical features of Georgia in 1790 included the Appalachian Mountains, the Piedmont region, and the Coastal Plain. These features played a crucial role in shaping the state's history, economy, and population distribution.
In conclusion, the Georgia 1790 map is a valuable historical resource that provides a unique perspective on the state’s development during a transformative period in American history. By examining the map’s geographical features, settlements, and Native American tribes, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex factors that shaped Georgia’s past and continue to influence its present.
