VIRGINIA STATE - Virginia, the "Old Dominion," boasts a rich history that stretches back long before its statehood in 1788. But what was this land called before English settlers arrived and established their colony? The answer lies both with the native inhabitants and the early European explorers.
Before the Commonwealth: Virginia's Earliest Names
Before European colonization, the area we now know as Virginia was home to a diverse group of Algonquian-speaking tribes. These tribes, part of the Powhatan Confederacy, had their own names for the regions they inhabited. While there wasn't one overarching name for the entire territory, some of the known indigenous names include:
Tsenacommacah: This was the name used by the Powhatan people for their territory, which encompassed much of Tidewater Virginia. It translates to "densely inhabited land."
Monacan: This referred to the territory of the Monacan tribe, located in the Piedmont region of Virginia.
Cherokee: While primarily associated with the southern Appalachian Mountains, the Cherokee also had a presence in southwestern Virginia.
These names reflect the deep connection the indigenous people had with the land and their unique perspectives on its different regions.
European Exploration and Early Nicknames:
The arrival of Europeans in the late 16th century brought new names and designations to the region.
Virginia: In 1584, Sir Walter Raleigh explored the area and claimed it for England in honor of Queen Elizabeth I, the "Virgin Queen." This is how the name "Virginia" first came to be used.
The Colony and Dominion of Virginia: Following the establishment of Jamestown in 1607, the area was officially known as the Colony of Virginia. Later, King Charles II bestowed the title of "Old Dominion" upon Virginia in recognition of its loyalty to the crown during the English Civil War.
Other Nicknames:
Beyond its official name and the "Old Dominion" moniker, Virginia acquired a few other nicknames throughout its early history:
The Mother of States: This nickname highlights Virginia's role as the birthplace of eight U.S. presidents and its significant contributions to the founding of the nation.
The Cavalier State: This nickname reflects the aristocratic and genteel culture that developed in colonial Virginia, particularly among the planter class.
The names and nicknames associated with Virginia before its statehood tell a story of diverse cultures, colonial ambitions, and evolving identities. From the indigenous names that honored the land to the European designations that marked their claims, each title provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Virginia's past.
