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Settlers arrived at Jamestown in 1607 - the first, permanent English colony in the Americas -- fully armed. Today's travelers to Virginia can explore the important story of guns during Virginia's first 175 years at many historical sites. Visitors can tour colonial towns, settlements and re-created forts; talk with military interpreters at historic parks; view museum exhibits; and watch as gunsmiths make muskets using traditional tools and techniques.
 
Settlers' early 17th-century weapons were not primarily for use against North American natives. In fact, the early English colonists came prepared to fight Spaniards. In 1607, England and Spain were rivals. The two countries had fought each other for years. This conflict stemmed from religious animosities and a desire to dominate Europe and the New World. The men who came to Jamestown believed that a Spanish attack would come. It never did. However, fearing the worst, the settlers built a triangular wooden fort. Besides relying on its sturdy walls and cannon, the colonists also defended themselves with longarms.