Colonial Culture and Geography

Objectives Explain the impact of geography on the economies of the New England, Middle, and Southern colonies. Compare and contrast differences in the social structure of the three major colonial regions. Describe the cultural life in the British colonies.

Terms and People staple crop – crops that are in steady demand cash crop – crops grown for sale dame school – a private school for girls that was operated out of a woman’s home

How did life differ in each of the three main regions of the British colonies? The colonies developed into three distinct regions: New England, the Middle Colonies, and the Southern Colonies. Each region developed a different economy and society.

New England Cold winters, short growing season, and a rugged landscape Middle Colonies Temperate climate, longer growing season, landscape of fields and valleys Southern Colonies Warm climate, long growing season, landscape with broad fields and valleys

New England Geography lent itself to fishing, lumber harvesting, and small-scale farming. Middle Colonies Known as the “bread basket” of the colonies for exporting staple crops, such as wheat and grain Southern Colonies Exported the labor-intensive cash crops of tobacco, rice, and indigo

By the mid-1700s, the population of the colonies was rapidly increasing. Based on their populations, the three regions developed different social patterns.

In New England There were few African Americans. There were more families and the population grew rapidly. There was more economic equality. Towns were established that supported local schools and churches.

In the Middle Colonies The population was more diverse. There was more religious tolerance. There was a variety of economic opportunities.

In the Southern Colonies Enslaved African Americans often were the majority of the population. The population was spread over large areas. There was little economic equality. Communities could not sustain local schools and churches.

The role of colonial women focused on maintaining the home. Few opportunities existed for women outside the home. By law and by custom, women could not vote, hold political office, or serve on juries. Married women could not own property, but a widow could inherit part of her husband’s estate.

Colonial schooling options were limited. To ensure that everyone could read the Bible, schools were required in all New England towns by the mid-1600s. Outside of New England, public education was less available. Home schooling was common. Some girls attended dame schools. Wealthy people hired private tutors or sent their children to England. The few colonial colleges were very costly.

Though most colonists attended only grammar schools, they were better educated than average Europeans. Colonial students used hand-held hornbooks to learn how to read.