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When the king heard that 3000 Jamestown inhabitants had died from the harsh conditions, an investigation was launched that resulted in

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Final answer:

After learning of the tragic situation in Jamestown with a death toll of 3000, an investigation prompted changes in the colony's governance by revising the charter and sending more practical colonists like skilled laborers. However, poor execution of these plans resulted in further confusion and strife upon their arrival.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the king learned of the misery at Jamestown, where 3000 inhabitants had died from harsh conditions such as starvation, disease, and exposure to bad weather, an extensive investigation ensued. This grievous situation led to changes in governance and policy for the settlement. The colony was plagued by internal strife, military conflicts with the Powhatan tribe, and the inability to grow enough food to sustain the population. This dismal state, especially during 1609-1610, known as the Starving Time, resulted in the death of more than 80 percent of the colonists, leaving less than a hundred survivors by May 1610.

As a consequence of the mounting crisis and following the investigation, the Virginia Company, the entity financing the colony, decided to revise the colony's charter. Under the new system, Jamestown would be governed by a sole governor instead of a council and president, with more practical colonists brought over, such as skilled laborers and artisans. Tragically, the reform came late, and the execution of the new plan was poor, with no official notice to existing leadership of the changes, leading to confusion and conflict upon the arrival of new colonists and their families.

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