What characteristic defined the Trustees' governance of Georgia?

The correct answer, which highlights an emphasis on altruism, accurately describes the philosophy underlying the Trustees' governance of Georgia. Founded in 1732, the colony was established by James Oglethorpe and his fellow Trustees with the intention of creating a place for the poor and indebted from Britain to start anew. Their charter emphasized humanitarian ideals, including providing opportunities for those facing hardship and fostering a community where individuals could thrive without the societal constraints often found in Europe.

This altruistic approach was distinct from other colonial ventures that prioritized economic gain or military dominance. The Trustees enacted policies prohibiting slavery and limiting land ownership to encourage a society based on small-scale farming and a communal ethos rather than profit-driven motives. Their governance aimed to improve the lives of settlers and create a model of a benevolent society, reflecting a commitment to social welfare rather than personal enrichment or political power.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the core principles of the Trustees’ administration. A focus on military strength, for instance, was not a priority in their initial governance plan; rather, they sought to prevent Spanish encroachment through diplomacy and settlement. Similarly, a pursuit of profit contradicts the altruistic motivations that defined the colony's establishment, as the Trustees were more