Question

For what purpose did Oglethorpe recruit the Highland Scots to settle south of Savannah?

a. The Highland Scots were excellent farmers and could produce much-needed food.
b. The Highland Scots were fierce soldiers and could help defend the colony's southern border.
c. The Highland Scots were expert boat builders and could build ships for the colony to carry exports.

Answer 1

James Oglethorpe recruited the Highland Scots to settle south of Savannah because of their reputation as fierce soldiers, which would aid in defending the colony's southern border against Spanish and Native American threats.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of recruiting the Highland Scots to settle south of Savannah by Oglethorpe was primarily for defense. Oglethorpe and the Trustees envisioned the Georgia colony as a military buffer zone between the British-held Carolinas and the Spanish territories in Florida. Hence, the Highland Scots were sought for their reputation as fierce soldiers. This would enable them to help defend the colony's southern border against potential Spanish invasions and conflicts with Native American groups. Their inclusion in the colony was part of Oglethorpe's broader plan, which also entailed restrictions like the banning of slavery and hard alcohol to preserve the military and social order he intended for Georgia.