The colonists arrived at Jamestown on May 13, 1607. At that time, historians estimate that over 14,000 Powhatan Indians lived in Virginia. One of the most apparent problems facing the colonists was communicating with the existing inhabitants. These early settlers also experienced major food shortages and poor medical care resulting in disease and illness. After 8 months only 34 of the original 104 were still alive. It is estimated that 1 out of every 6 settlers dies within the first year at the settlement.
