When was glass first manufactured in America?

The correct timeframe for when glass was first manufactured in America is indeed the late 1600s. Early glass-making efforts began in the colonies around this period, specifically in areas like Jamestown, Virginia. The first successful glasshouse was established in 1608, which marked the beginning of glass production in the New World. These early ventures aimed to produce glass items such as bottles and windows to meet the growing needs of the colonial settlers.

The late 1600s is significant because it represents a time when colonists were trying to develop local industries instead of relying entirely on imports from Europe. The establishment of glass-making was an important step for self-sufficiency, showcasing both the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early American settlers.

In contrast, the other timeframes listed—early 1900s, mid-1800s, and late 1700s—while they saw advancements and expansions in glass production techniques and styles, do not accurately represent the beginnings of glass manufacturing in America. During those later periods, glass manufacturing had evolved significantly, with the introduction of new technologies and mass production methods, but not the actual inception of the craft in the country.