What was the original purpose of the Georgia colony?

The original purpose of the Georgia colony was to provide a refuge for debtors and the poor. Founded in 1733 by James Oglethorpe, Georgia was envisioned as a place where individuals who had fallen into debt and faced imprisonment could start anew. Oglethorpe and his fellow trustees aimed to create a society that would offer opportunities for the impoverished and less fortunate. This mission stemmed from Oglethorpe's belief in reforming the penal system and helping those at the bottom of the social ladder.

While Georgia did eventually serve other purposes, such as promoting agricultural trade and serving strategic military interests, its unique founding principle concentrated on social reform and providing a haven for those in financial distress. The emphasis on helping debtors distinguished Georgia from other colonies at the time, shaping its identity and purpose in the early 18th century. The other options do not capture this foundational intent that guided the establishment of the colony.