Rivers: The Lifeblood of Early Civilization and Colonization

In the early years of our education, we are taught that humans need three main staples for survival: food, water, and shelter. The location of water, of course, determines areas that are inhabitable for humans, as animals and plants for both food and shelter tend to be near water sources. The truth in this statement can be seen in that Macon emerged as an inhabitable place as early as before 9,000 BC. The closeness of the Ocmulgee River contributes to existence of humans in the area.  A timeline of the colonization of Macon can be seen on the Ocmulgee National Monument's website.

Model of recreated Indian Mounds

Ocmulgee River near Indian Mounds

Map of Ocmulgee National Monument

Macon was not the only city founded for its vital position next to a river. Outside of Georgia, Indian tribes and later European colonists settled alongside the Mississippi River. Colonies throughout the original Thirteen Colonies relied on rivers to provide food, shelter, and transportation. For example, the Chesapeake Bay thrived on the production and selling of tobacco because the local rivers and creeks provided an excellent system of transportation both inland to the other Colonies and to the sea to sell in Britain. Tybee Island was settled the Euchee Tribe, then the Spanish, followed by the French, and finally by Oglethorpe. Why? Tybee offered a variety of natural resources, including protection and flowing waters.