1. No alcohol: The importation, production, and consumption of alcohol were strictly prohibited in the colony. This regulation aimed to maintain a sober and orderly society, preventing issues such as public drunkenness and alcohol-related crimes.
2. No slavery: In contrast to other Southern colonies, the Trustees of Georgia specifically forbade the introduction of slavery within the colony. They believed that the presence of slavery would hinder the development of a free and virtuous society. Instead, a labor force of indentured servants was utilized.
3. Restrictions on land ownership: Each colonist was granted 50 acres of land upon arrival, but with a limit of 500 acres per individual. This aimed to prevent the accumulation of vast landholdings and promote a more equitable distribution of wealth.
4. No Catholics: Catholicism was not legally recognized, and Catholics were not allowed to own land or hold public office. This restriction was influenced by the Protestant religious affiliations of the Trustees and the anti-Catholic sentiment prevalent in England at the time.
5. Prohibition of luxury goods: Importing unnecessary luxury items like expensive furniture, clothing, and wines was discouraged. The Trustees wanted to encourage a simple and agrarian lifestyle, minimizing extravagance and material desires.
6. Requirement to cultivate certain crops: Settlers were obligated to cultivate specific crops that the Trustees deemed useful and valuable, such as mulberry trees for silk production and flax or hemp for fabric manufacturing. Colonists were also required to plant specified percentages of their land with such designated crops.
7. No trade with foreign nations: Settlers were allowed to trade only with approved British ports, with strict measures enforced to curb illegal trading activities. This restriction was enacted to ensure control over commercial activities and generate revenue for the colony.
These restrictions and regulations were implemented to shape a society according to the ideals and objectives set by the Trustees. Maintaining social order, preventing moral decay, and establishing a prosperous yet equitable colony were among the primary objectives guiding these restrictions.
