Compare and Contrast the Regional Difference in the Colonial Economy of British North America Between 1607 and 1750

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The Southern Colonies consisted of Virginia, Maryland, South and North Carolina. These colonies were developed with social structures that most resembled England. Their geography was estuaries and natural ports, and coastal plains with rich soil. They enjoyed a long growing season and mild winters. These colonies developed large plantations, small farms and port cities. Their crops were large, singular and were labor intensive, including tobacco, rice and cotton. These conditions created the environment where slavery flourished for a time. The social structure was very dependent on one’s station in life, much like England. Their governments were fairly insular to the county level, and generally appointed by a royal governor. These colonies were generally dependent on others to buy their products. They also included trades and craftsman, but the slave population and indentured servant populations were the largest. Religion did not play a large role in either social hierarchy or governmental development.

There was some interdependence seen in the colonies, where those who grew crops would sell to those who couldn’t. Where manufacturing developed, they sold finished products to others in the colonies as well as England. The Middle Colonies developed industries that included selling to many countries to improve markets for all.

While the colonies were very different in most areas, there were some similarities. The colonies generally were developed as business ventures and expected to produce profits. Each developed some class distinctions, generally along income and relative freedom. Lastly, they were all seen as part of Great Britain, which was a global empire.