Comparison of Colonial Regions
Matthew Mulkey
The 13 Colonies
The first 13 colonies were divided into three different geographic regions. They were all unique in their own ways. The all had religions, economies, and different reasons as to why they were formed.
The Southern Colonies
Religion- There was a sense of religious freedom in the south at this time. Many people were Baptists or Anglicans.
Economy- They focused mostly on agriculture, including tobacco, corn, cotton, and livestock.
Society- Divided among rich plantation owners, poor farmers and slaves.
The Middle Colonies
Religion- The middle colonies were very tolerant when it came to religion. They, for the most part, allowed you to believe in what you wanted.
Economy- Staple crops, shipping ports, and the fur trade helped the middle colonies economically.
Society- Home of the Quakers, under the leadership of William Peun. There was much diversity throughout this region.
The New England Colonies
Religion- The Puritan church was the main focus in the New England region. Every settler had to attend unless something drastic had happened.
Economy- Shipbuilding, trade, and fishing were the main industries in the Northeast.
Society- In 1692, the Salem Witch Trials were held that condemned many young women to death. Also, the puritans were the first to reveal public education.
Why were the colonies first started?
The reasoning behind creating the 13 colonies was that the English wanted to expand their colonies and create trade routes throughout the world. Also, this created wealth for the royal peoples in England.