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In the Early Days of the Commonwealth...
Virginia was founded in 1607 in Jamestown. Since its early beginnings, Virginia has grown and prospered into a thriving state rich with diversity from culture to climate.
In colonial times, Virginia was officially known as the Colony and Dominion of Virginia. When the 13 colonies broke ties with the British Crown during the Revolution, the old name was no longer suitable. The delegates to the convention in Williamsburg, when the first Constitution of Virginia was adopted on June 29, 1776, used commonwealth as the name for the new form of government. Pennsylvania and Massachusetts also chose to be called commonwealths after independence from Great Britain. The other 10 former colonies took the name "state," the term used in the Declaration of Independence.
Homework Help! Fact Pack about Virginia! (PDF)
A Glimpse into Virginia's Past
Related Resources: The Library of Virginia | Virginia Tourism
