1. Economic Opportunity The southern colonies were based on an agrarian economy Cash Crops were grown throughout the southern colonies Slave labor and indentured servitude were introduced as a way to make an even greater profit

2. Economic Opportunity The New England Colonies relied on their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean Shipbuilding, merchant trade, fishing, and skilled work made up for the rocky soil

3. Economic Opportunity The Middle Colonies shared traits with both of their neighbors Staple Crops were the leading economic resource of the region New York City and Philadelphia became large, important trade destinations

4. Religious Freedom Religious persecution in Europe forced thousands to look to America for a fresh start The Toleration Act of 1649 was the first law supporting religious tolerance in the colonies

5. Religious Freedom The Great Migration saw thousands of Puritans, led by John Winthrop, leave Europe for Massachusetts A charter was granted and a new society filled with tolerance, political rights, education, and self- government was founded William Penn was granted a charter shortly thereafter and founded Pennsylvania for the Quakers