Title: The Case of the Missing Colony

Background: In 1587, a group of English settlers established a colony on Roanoke Island in present-day North Carolina. Led by John White, the group included men, women, and children. However, when White returned from a supply trip to England in 1590, he found the colony abandoned with no sign of the settlers. The only clue left behind was the word “Croatoan” carved into a tree.

Task: Your task is to investigate the disappearance of the Roanoke colony and propose a solution to the mystery. Use primary sources, such as White’s writings and other historical documents, to gather evidence and analyze possible explanations for the disappearance.

Steps: 1. Research the history of the Roanoke colony and the events leading up to its disappearance. 2. Examine primary sources, such as John White’s writings and other historical documents, to gather evidence. 3. Analyze the evidence and consider possible explanations for the disappearance of the colony. 4. Develop a theory or solution to the mystery based on your research and analysis. 5. Present your findings to the class and explain your reasoning behind your proposed solution.

Extensions: - Create a timeline of events leading up to the disappearance of the Roanoke colony. - Compare and contrast different theories proposed by historians and researchers. - Investigate other unsolved historical mysteries, such as the disappearance of the Mary Celeste or the fate of the Lost Franklin Expedition.

By engaging in this historical mystery-solving activity, students will develop critical thinking skills, research abilities, and an appreciation for the complexities of historical investigation.