Instructions:
Read the three passages about the New England, Mid-Atlantic, and Southern Colonies. For each statement, click the region it best describes. When finished, click Submit Answers.

Southern Colonies

Climate & Geography: The Southern Colonies had hot summers, mild winters, and the longest growing season. Fertile soil supported large-scale farming, though warm weather encouraged diseases such as malaria and yellow fever.

Religion: Many settlers were Anglican. Maryland was founded as a refuge for English Catholics. Religion generally had less influence on daily community life because plantations were spread far apart.

Economy: The economy was based on farming and cash crops such as tobacco, rice, indigo, cotton, and sugarcane. Large plantations relied on enslaved people and indentured servants for labor.

Mid-Atlantic Colonies

Climate & Geography: The Mid-Atlantic Colonies had a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Fertile land and good harbors supported farming and shipping. They were called the “breadbasket” colonies because they produced large amounts of grain.

Religion: Religion was diverse. Religious tolerance attracted immigrants from many places, including Quakers, Catholics, Jews, Lutherans, and Presbyterians.

Economy: The economy was diverse: agriculture, trade, logging, shipbuilding, crafts, and small industries. Cities like New York and Philadelphia became important shipping and trading centers.

New England Colonies

Climate & Geography: New England had long, cold winters and mild summers. The soil was often rocky, making farming difficult. Cold winters also reduced the spread of some diseases.

Religion: Puritans dominated society and enforced strict rules. Church attendance was expected, and some celebrations and holidays were restricted.

Economy: Many colonists depended on the ocean. Fishing, shipbuilding, whaling, and trade were important. Some merchants later participated in the triangular trade.
Statement New England Mid-Atlantic Southern
Long growing seasons and fertile soil supported major cash crops.
Known as the “breadbasket” because large amounts of grain were produced.
Rocky soil and a colder climate made farming more difficult.
Religious diversity was common, and tolerance attracted many immigrant groups.
Large plantations relied heavily on enslaved labor.
Fishing and shipbuilding were key parts of the economy.
Big port cities developed as major shipping and trade centers.
Hot summers helped spread diseases like malaria and yellow fever.
Puritan ideas strongly shaped laws and daily life.
A mix of farming and skilled trades helped create a diverse economy.
Agriculture was the main economic activity, especially on large farms.
Cold winters reduced the spread of some diseases.
Fertile land and good harbors supported both agriculture and shipping.
Religion often had less influence on community life because homes were spread far apart.
Many communities were centered around churches and strict religious expectations.
Quakers were one of several important religious groups in the region.