Why did john smith make the rule that if a colonist did not worktthat colonist would not?

Answer 1

John Smith established the rule that if a colonist did not work, they would not eat to encourage productivity and self-sufficiency among the settlers of Jamestown. The colony was struggling with food shortages and a lack of motivation among some colonists, many of whom were unaccustomed to the labor-intensive lifestyle required for survival. By implementing this rule, Smith aimed to foster a sense of responsibility and communal effort necessary for the colony’s survival and success. This policy ultimately helped to improve the work ethic and cohesion within the colony.