2008 test · Question 58 of 100
What is one reason colonists came to America?
Answers from the USCIS list
Give one of these answers.
- freedom
- political liberty
- religious freedom
- economic opportunity
- practice their religion
- escape persecution
Our explanation
Colonists were people from Europe who settled in America. Many came to Jamestown for economic opportunity, such as land to farm. The Pilgrims came for religious freedom. Others came to escape persecution (cruel, unfair treatment).
Remember it
Shortest answer: just say “freedom.”
Source
USCIS 2025 Study Guide pp. 44, 46; “escape persecution” from the 2008 civics Q&A p. 6. Quote (p. 44): “Many colonists who settled in Jamestown came to North America because they wanted economic opportunities.”
Found a mistake on this page? Email us at ljorjoliani@icloud.com.
Easy to mix up with
Ready to practice? Try this question with multiple choice. Then practice the exam by typing. Every answer is graded for you.