Jamestown was the first permanent, stable English settlement in North America. Because Jamestown was successful, it provided an example of a sustainable colony to other expeditions heading to the New World. Although Jamestown had troubles early, including Indian attacks, starvation, disease, etc., the colonists found a way to feed themselves and coexist with the Indians peacefully. The establishment of tobacco plantations was also the first time tobacco was made into a cash crop for a colony. It became a major export to England and helped the colony become more profitable and prosperous. The first steps to democracy were taken when the House of Burgess's, a local council and representative legal body, was formed.