Jamestown was the first English settlement in North America. 100 colonists settled along the James River, Virginia, in May 1607. Their existence was at the mercy of famine, disease and attacks from the local Indian population.

John Smith, 27, was a colorful figure who had won popularity thanks to his organizational abilities and his successful dealings with the local native population.

His election as president didn't have an immediately good effect on the population, however, and a fire soon destroyed much of the town.

Back story: In December 1607 Smith and two others were detained by Powhatan warriors, part of a 30 tribe strong group headed by Chief Wahunsonacock (or Chief Powhatan to the English). Smith survived the ordeal due, it seems, to the actions of 13 year old Pocahontas, Chief Powhatan's daughter.

Afterwards, Pocahontas made regular trips to Jamestown with gifts of food to the settlers. She became acquainted with English ways.

In 1609 Smith returned to England following an injury.

April 1614, Pocahontas married English painter John Rolfe in Jamestown.