Jamestown was established in 1607 as England's first permanent colony. It was located along a river for defense and transportation purposes but the environment was swampy and disease-prone. Many of the original colonists died within the first year due to disease and lack of shelter and food. John Smith became governor and established order, convincing local tribes to trade for corn. However, after Smith's early departure, the colony returned to chaos. A "Starving Time" in 1609-1610 saw many deaths until the cultivation of tobacco ensured the colony's survival and economic success.