Colonial Era Study Guide (Standard 1 and 2)

Mercantilism and Colonies

• Mercantilism promoted the establishment of colonies to ensure a favorable balance of trade by exporting more than importing, benefiting the mother country economically.

• New England Colonies:

  • Comprise Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut.
  • Economy focused on shipbuilding, trading, and fishing.
  • Primarily inhabited by Puritans.
  • Initial peaceful relations with Native Americans deteriorated, culminating in King Philip’s War.

• Middle Colonies (Mid-Atlantic):

  • Include New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey.
  • Residents largely consisted of Quakers.
  • Pennsylvania was founded by William Penn, promoting religious tolerance.

• Southern Colonies:

  • Consist of Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, Virginia.
  • Economy relied heavily on large plantations producing tobacco and indigo.
  • Relations with Native Americans were initially peaceful but worsened as land demand increased for farming.

Bacon's Rebellion

• Bacon's Rebellion was a significant uprising that suggested government should assist all settlers, reflecting discontent among the colonists.
• It resulted in increased trade among colonies and the development of sustainable local economies.
• Key figures included Virginia settlers and Nathaniel Bacon, who led the rebellion.

Salutary Neglect

• Salutary neglect allowed colonial self-governance, fostering local political institutions and economic independence.
• Southern colonies engaged in mutual trade, benefiting from limited oversight.
• New England demonstrated similar patterns of self-governance and economic cooperation.

Great Awakening

• The Great Awakening was a religious revival movement emphasizing personal faith and emotional spirituality.
• It transformed religious experiences, making them more intellectual and emotionally charged.

Transatlantic Slave Trade

• Involved a complex culture comprising African slaves and European traders.
• The trade route featured Europeans traveling to Africa and then to America.
• The Middle Passage refers specifically to the brutal journey where enslaved Africans were transported.
• The commerce involved a triangular exchange of goods across continents.
• Fertile soil allowed for the production of cash crops, which were economically significant.
• Key concepts:
  • Exports: Goods sent out to other countries.
  • Imports: Goods brought into a country.
  • Indentured servants were those serving a contract for labor, often due to debt.
  • Cash crops were vital for economic growth and generated substantial profits.

This study guide focuses on mercantilism and its impact on the establishment of colonies in the New England region. Dive into key topics such as the economy of the New England colonies and notable inhabitants. Answer the questions in your own words for a comprehensive understanding of the colonial era.