James Oglethorpe was an English general and philanthropist, best known for founding the colony of Georgia in 1733. He aimed to create a place for debtors and the poor to start anew, providing them with opportunities for a better life. Oglethorpe believed in social reform and wanted to offer a refuge for those facing imprisonment due to unpaid debts. Oglethorpe served as the colony's first governor and established a set of laws that promoted religious freedom and fair treatment of Native Americans. His leadership helped Georgia thrive, and he played a significant role in the early development of the southern United States.