Final answer:
Captain John Smith's policy of mandatory labor, known as the "head right" system, was essential for the survival of the Jamestown Colony by preventing idleness, ensuring a sustainable source of food and resources through communal labor, and fostering a sense of community and cooperation among the settlers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Certainly! The "head right" system, which was enforced by Captain John Smith, was a policy implemented in the Jamestown Colony in 1619. Under this system, each colonist was granted 250 acres of land, but they had to work for three years before they could claim it as their own.
This policy was essential for the survival of the colony because it prevented idleness, which was a major problem in the early years of the settlement. Many settlers came to Jamestown expecting to live off the land without putting in much effort, which led to a severe food shortage and many deaths due to starvation.
The "head right" system ensured that everyone contributed to the colony's survival by working on communal farms and building infrastructure.
This communal labor provided a sustainable source of food and resources for the colony, as everyone worked together to ensure that there was enough food and resources to go around. Additionally, this policy fostered a sense of community and cooperation among the settlers, as they worked together towards a common goal.
Overall, Captain John Smith's policy of mandatory labor was crucial for the survival of the Jamestown Colony because it prevented idleness, ensured a sustainable source of food and resources, and fostered a sense of community and cooperation among the settlers.