Colonial Economics Section 3.2

Main Idea A commerce-based economy developed in the northern colonies, while the southern colonies developed an agricultural economy.

North Farming: not done on a large scale, only food for your family. Resources: The North was rich in resources including Fur Timber Fish Whales

Whaling

North Industry: Only a few industries flourished in the colonies, most in the North. Shipbuilding employed 33,000. Some locals produced textiles, rum, and iron tools, but most manufacturing occurred in Europe. Commerce: banks and merchants sold goods produced in the North. Northern ships often participated in the triangular trade.

Triangular Trade

Middle Passage Slaves were often shipped by northern sailors to the South from Africa. The ocean journey of the slaves became known as the Middle Passage. Conditions were harsh, and mortality (death) rates were high.

Olaudah Equiano Equiano was born in Africa, but became a victim of the slave trade Taken from his home at a young age he later became literate and described his experiences as a slave. His autobiography is one of the best primary sources for slavery during colonial times.

Southern Economy Plantation System: Farmers in the South concentrated on cash crops (tobacco and rice) that could be sold in Europe. After Bacon’s Rebellion slaves were relied upon for labor. Most farmers did not own plantations. These yeoman worked with family farmers to subsistence farm.

Colonial Slavery Slavery in the 13 Colonies began in 1619 at Jamestown. Although the plantations accounted for most slaves, some labored in the North as skilled workers and servants. Most justified slavery because it was economically profitable. Many slaves did their best to better their lives through escape attempts and sabotage on work equipment. Some slaves were allowed to save $ and buy their freedom. They became “free blacks.” Others resisted violently. In 1739 100 South Carolina slaves started the Stono Rebellion.