Discover Why Virginia Is Called the Old Dominion

Introduction

Located in the eastern United States, Virginia is one of the states that hold the most historical significance. The colony of Jamestown was the first part of the country to be settled in the seventeenth century. From this initial settlement, the area blossomed into a cultural and political hub, housing many key historical moments during the formation of the country. Even today, Virginia represents the formation of the United States and the rich, complex history of the country. Keep reading to learn all about Virginia and discover why it is called the “Old Dominion.”

History of Virginia

After English settlers arrived in Virginia in 1607, they quickly began trading with the Powhatan tribe. The tribe helped the settlers greatly, providing them with food and resources that were essential for their survival. However, conflicts between the native people and the English settlers frequently occurred. By 1646, settlers had eliminated a majority of the native tribes and began forcing the survivors to assimilate into their culture over the next several decades.

Virginia’s Role in The Revolutionary War

As more settlers traveled to the new world over the next century, the areas surrounding Virginia became much more colonized. Virginia was the first of 13 colonies that remained under the control of the British Crown. While many colonies formed after Virginia, the area remained the central hub of government and development for the New World. In the late 18th century, the British laws and regulations of the colonies became more strict. Residents of the colonies began to revolt against the crown and demand more rights. When these demands were not met, the Revolutionary War began.

Many important battles in the war were fought in Virginia, and George Washington, a Virginia native, became the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Finally, in the spring of 1781, British troops surrendered to the Continental Army at the Battle of Yorktown in Yorktown, Virginia. Now, the Virginia area serves as the center of government for the United States of America.

Virginia’s Role in The Civil War

While the 13 colonies won independence from Britain, the new country’s struggles were far from over. Virginia and many other new states relied heavily on tobacco farming to support their economy, but their farming methods were highly corrupt. After the international slave trade was outlawed in the early 19th century, it became Virginia’s largest source of income. This industry came with horrible codes and abuse of enslaved Americans that prohibited them from having any rights. When slaves began revolting against the brutal injustices they faced, it caught the attention of the rest of the country. Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861 to continue the slave trade and became the headquarters of the Confederacy. In 1865 at the Battle of Appomattox Court House in Virginia, the Confederate Army was finally defeated. After ratifying several constitutional amendments, Virginia was reaccepted into the Union in 1870.

Why Virginia is Called the Old Dominion

Between the years 1642 and 1651, the English Civil Wars occurred. While they occurred overseas, these wars are why Virginia is called “the Old Dominion”. The three wars happened due to disagreements between King Charles I and Parliament over the king’s abuse of power and position on religion. The wars ended in the execution of King Charles I and a period of political unrest in the area. Because the colony of Virginia continued to refer to Charles as the king, Parliament sent an armed fleet to the area in 1652 to force the colony to give up its allegiance. When King Charles II rose to power, he gave the Virginia Colony the nickname “The Old Dominion.” This was due to the colony’s loyalty to the crown during the period of dissension across the Atlantic. However, Virginia’s status as a loyal dominion would quickly change in the next century.

The nickname is also appropriate because Virginia was the original colony and first dominion of England in the New World. Other nicknames for the state of Virginia include “Mother of Presidents,” “Mother of States,” “Cavalier State,” and “Down Where the South Begins.”

The Symbolism of the Virginia State Flag

George Wythe created the Virginia state seal in 1776. The design shows a woman dressed as an Amazon warrior standing over a fallen king. This is said to represent the theme of the time of being victorious over an unfair, tyrannical government. Underneath the image is the Latin phrase “Sic semper tyrannis,” which translates to “Thus always to tyrants.” In 1861, the state legislature placed the image on a blue background to create the state flag. 70 years later, in 1931, the wreath of the Virginia creeper plant was added along the border of the image, and the flag has remained the same ever since.

The Virginia State Animals

Virginia does not have a specific state animal, however, several animals of different kingdoms found throughout the state have gained official status. Keep reading to discover the official Virginia state animals.

State Bat

The Virginia big-eared bat is the official state bat. These creatures are found in the mountainous areas of the state and are much more active during the summer months. Virginia big-eared bats weigh around half an ounce and measure approximately four inches in length. They have brown and black fur, with slightly darker coloring on their backs. The defining feature of these bats, however, is their large ears. Their ears measure over an inch in length, which is much longer than the ears of many other species of bat. Virginia big-eared bats eat mainly bugs and insects found in rural areas in the state such as corn fields and pastures.

State Dog

The American foxhound is the official Virginia state dog. These dogs weigh between 60 to 70 pounds and have a life expectancy of up to 13 years. American foxhounds are covered in black, white, and tan fur, with the undersides of their bodies typically having lighter coloring. They became the Virginia state dogs because of their association with heroes during the Revolutionary War, making them important historical figures. These dogs are known for being incredibly playful, yet able to defend their families in times of danger. They have extremely energetic personalities, and can be trained fairly easily. These loyal, affectionate pups would make a great addition to any household!

State Bird

The northern cardinal holds the title of official state bird in Virginia as well as seven other states. These birds measure between eight to nine inches in length and can weigh up to two ounces. Northern cardinals live for around 15 years in the wild and can be found in all kinds of areas that have insects, seeds, or fruit. While these birds are known for their iconic coloring, only male cardinals have bright red feathers. Female cardinals have a more tan coloring, which makes them harder to identify. These birds are incredibly social, and can even be seen interacting with other species. Male cardinals are fairly aggressive, however, and often attack other males that enter their territory.

State Salamander

The red salamander is the official state salamander of Virginia. Similar to cardinals, these amphibians have a bright red coloring. Their bodies are decorated with many black spots, and they typically measure between four to six inches in length. Red salamanders can live up to 20 years in the wild, surviving off of a diet of worms, insects, and even smaller salamanders. These salamanders can be found in creeks and springs, as well as under rocks and logs on land. One interesting feature of red salamanders is their tongue, which can extend and withdraw in a matter of milliseconds.

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