Roanoke: The Mystery of the Lost Colony
Roanoke: The Mystery of the Lost Colony is a Grade 5 history skill from Pengi Social Studies. Students investigate the first English settlement in North America, established in 1587 on Roanoke Island, which mysteriously disappeared by 1590. The mystery of the colonists fate has never been definitively solved.
Key Concepts
England attempted to build its first settlement on Roanoke Island . The first group failed, and a second group vanished completely after their leader returned from England.
The only clue left behind was the word "CROATOAN" carved into a post. This mystery is why Roanoke is known as the Lost Colony , proving that colonization was dangerous and uncertain.
Common Questions
What was the Roanoke Colony?
Roanoke was the first English settlement in North America, established in 1587 on Roanoke Island off the coast of present-day North Carolina, led by John White.
Why is Roanoke called the Lost Colony?
When Governor John White returned from a resupply trip to England in 1590, he found the colony abandoned with no sign of the settlers, only the word CROATOAN carved on a post.
What theories exist about what happened to the Roanoke colonists?
Theories include that the colonists merged with nearby Native American tribes, died from disease or starvation, or were killed by hostile Native groups or Spanish forces.
Who was Virginia Dare?
Virginia Dare was the first English child born in the Americas, born to colonists at Roanoke in 1587.
What grade covers the Roanoke Colony mystery?
The Roanoke Colony is studied in Grade 5 American history.