Early Progress  
Maryland's first decade was a time of great growth and progress. Between 1634 and 1645, the colony expanded from its initial settlement site with plantations appearing along the Patuxent and Potomac Rivers and across the Chesapeake Bay. The population grew to between 500 and 600 settlers and the cultivation of tobacco for export to England became the focus of the economy. In 1635, the first Assembly was held in St. Mary's, beginning the legacy of citizen government. In 1638, the Assembly claimed the right to introduce its own laws. Maryland's growth seemed assured, but events in England conspired to halt the progress.