The ESPN Factors of the Middle Colonies Economic Social Political ENvironment

Economic Factors: Part of the economy was agricultural. The rich soil helped the economy. Wheat and other grains were grown on farms in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. Farmers in the Middle Colonies grew wheat, barley, oats, rye, and corn. The Middle Colonies were often called the "breadbasket" because they grew so much food. Fishing was also important to these colonies as well as having access to the Atlantic for importing and exporting goods. Wheat could be ground to make flour, and both wheat and flour could be sold in other colonies or in Europe.

Social Villages and towns in the Middle colonies had common areas. Here, children played, tutors instructed students, and families gathered to discuss the news of the day. Games kids played included tag, marbles, hopscotch, hide-and-seek, and other names familiar to kids today. They didn't really have toys, so they often made their own or played outdoor games that didn't require toys.

Religious The Middle colonists were a mixture of religions, including Quakers (led by William Penn), Catholics, Lutherans, Jews, and others. Back then, going to church was a very important affair, and people believed that it should be an all-day event. FYI- Quakers allowed girls to be educated.

Political factors Government in the Middle Colonies was “controlled” by a governor (appointed by William Penn) who could veto laws passed by the council (appointed by Penn) and a popularly elected assembly that could check the council. Colonists were not forced to go to church i.e. Religious Freedom Colonists did not have to pay taxes to support the church i.e. No taxation w/o representation

Environmental Factors The Middle Colonies had large ports. It also had rich rolling farm land. Check For Understanding? Why would ports be important? Why would farmland be important?