Physical and Human Geographic Factors

Preview 8/31/16 What are some of the natural barriers on this map that affected Westward settlement?

Effects in Colonial America Towns in Colonial America were built along the coast because of their access to deep harbors Due to the colonists access to these harbors, they were able to profit from Triangular Trade In the South, rich soil and need for a large labor force led to the introduction of slavery

How This Effects Us Today Population continues to be dense (packed) along the Atlantic coast New York City and Boston are still major trade centers People still want to make money from trading

Population Density Look at the two population density maps. How is has changed or not changed over time?

How Physical Characteristics Influence….. Population distribution Population growth near large bodies of water Appalachian Mountains discouraged western settlement Settlement patterns Climate/natural resources lured people to settle in certain areas Major cities formed along the fall line Fall line = area in the Backcountry where waterfalls prevented large boats from moving upriver

Economic Activities in the Colonies

New England Colonies

Middle Colonies

Southern Colonies

How Physical Characteristics Influence….. Economic activities New England colonies had access to the Atlantic Ocean and to timber resources so fishing, whaling and shipping were common The Middle Colonies had fertile soil and good harbors which allowed them access to trade and to grow cash crops Rich soil and a long growing season led to the development of the plantation system in the Southern Colonies

Human Modification of the Environment Positive Effects Development of cities Higher standard of living for colonists Negative Effects Forcing the Native American populations to relocate Exploitation of natural resources for economic gain

Mapping Activity Continue the Thirteen Colonies Physical Features Map Quiz over the Thirteen Colonies Physical Features Map on Sept. 7!