1. THREE COLONIAL REGIONS Geographical Characteristics Make a Difference
Essential Question: What influence did the environment have on the economy and settlement of each colonial region?

2. The 13 Colonies were grouped into 3 Distinct Geographic Regions
Remember a region is defined as a large area of land having similar geographic, political, or cultural characteristics that distinguish it from other areas.
The 3 Colonial Regions are divided into:
Northern Colonies, Mid-Atlantic Colonies, and the Southern Colonies
Each of these regions have distinct physical characteristics and unique natural resources.
These physical characteristics and natural resources will influence the way the colonies develop over time.
Economically, Politically, and Culturally

3. Northern Colonies or New England: Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island
Not known for good farmland – farms small, mainly provide for individual families
Harbors throughout the region – good for European trade
Good region for fishing, shipbuilding, lumbering, and fur trading
Also traded goods with Europe
Small towns were the centers of local government
Settled by religious reformers and separatists
Religious Freedoms were essential
Skilled craftsman (shipbuilding)
Growth of cities and known for education

4. Mid-Atlantic Colonies: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware
Area excellent for farming and had natural harbors for trade with Europe
Good mix of farming, trading and skilled workers
Farmers grew grain and raised livestock
Settled by people from many different backgrounds and life styles

5. Southern Colonies: Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia
Grew their own food but also known for CASH CROPS-Tobacco, Rice, and Indigo
Primarily agricultural
Settled by people seeking economic resources to provide material wealth for England and themselves
Plantations (large farms) vs. small farms of Northern Colonies
Worked by indentured servants and Slaves
Kept people living far apart – prevents growth of towns
Contributes to more independent, rural attitudes
Main business was trade with England – dependent on England
During Revolution more likely to side with England

6. Quick Comparison of Three Colonial Regions
Northern Colonies:
Economy based on skilled labor
Environment ideal for water powered mills – finished goods like woven cloth and metal tools
People heavily connected to church and village community
Middle Colonies
Good soil & moderate weather – small to large farms
Coastal lowlands and many bays
Good trading opportunities
Southern Colonies
Great soil, longer growing season – cash crops
Plantations – self sufficient – less towns & cities
Wealthy aristocrats & slave labor – divide socially and economically
Life rugged and rural – leads to great independence