In 1723 the Virginia Law was enacted which forbade manumission without legislative approval. Only 1% or less of the free "negro" population in Virginia was not descended from these free "negroes". Many of these free "negroes" moved into North Carolina. Even as late as 1773 white indentures had not been totally replaced by "negro" slave labor.

Just as the newly freed white servant, newly freed "negro" slaves often moved to the frontier, which was then southside Virginia and such counties as New Kent as well as northeastern North Carolina where land was available to all who could pay the taxes and live in frontier conditions.

1640-1649 the English Civil War was waged in England and ended with the beheading of Charles I in 1649.

During the short span of the 17th century, Virginia saw 6 different rulers including: James I, Charles I, Charles II, the Cromwellian Parliament, the restoration of Charles II, James II and the Glorious Revolution and finally the reign of William III and Mary.

By 1634 Virginia was composed of eight shires or counties and had a total population of about five thousand. By 1636 a ferry service began operation offering colonists a ferry across the Elizabeth River.

1650-1659 England was ruled by the Cromwellian Parliament.

1660-1669 Charles II is restored to the throne of England and the Second Dutch War is fought.

1670-1679 Charles II continues to reign from the throne of England and the Third Dutch War is fought.

In 1676, Virginia faced the first American Revolution in Bacon's Rebellion. (More about that elsewhere in this work).

1680-1689 England is ruled by James II (1685-1688) and the Glorious Revolution breaks out in England in 1688.

1690-1699 saw the reign of William and Mary.

In 1693 the College of William and Mary is established.

In 1699 the capital of Virginia is moved from Jamestown to Williamsburg.

The 17th century Virginian had low life expectations coupled with high death rates. Setttlement in the colony was dispersed with no large towns or strong institutions. The Virginian's views included strong expansionism and aggressive economic and social behavior.