Growth of Colonies Flashcards

Slavery and Property

• Slaves on plantations were classified as chattel property, which indicated that they were treated as possessions rather than individuals with rights.

Population Growth Factors

• The population in the colonies surged from 1700 to 1776 due primarily to large families and increased immigration.
• Many Europeans fled to the colonies to escape warfare in Europe, contributing to population growth.

Profitable Occupation

• The most lucrative occupation in the colonies was commerce, overshadowing other sectors like fur trading and agriculture.

Leaders of Public Opinion

• Colonial merchants emerged as the new leaders of public opinion, replacing ministers in their influence within society.

Source of Immigrants

• England was the earliest and primary source of immigrants to America, laying the foundation for future migrations.

Reasons for German Migration

• Key factors driving Germans to migrate to America included:
  • Persistent warfare among German states.
  • Religious persecution faced by Protestant peasants.
  • Heavy taxation and property seizures by governing factions.

Reasons for Scots-Irish Migration

• Scots-Irish immigrants were motivated by:
  • Economic hardships that threatened their livelihoods.
  • Restrictions barring them from exporting their dairy and textile products to English markets.

French Huguenots

• The French Huguenots fled to America primarily due to persecution related to their religious beliefs.

Non-Willing Immigrants

• The largest group of non-willing immigrants brought to America were from Africa, highlighting the transatlantic slave trade.

Social Status Improvement

• Characteristics that facilitated social mobility among colonists included communication and ambition, with clothing being less influential.

Farmers’ Attire

• Farmers in colonial America typically wore homemade clothing, which reflected their economic status and self-sufficiency.

Upper Classes in Colonial America

• The upper classes comprised primarily planters and merchants who held significant wealth and influence in the colonies.

Lower Classes in Colonial America

• The lower class was largely formed by indentured servants, who worked under contracts for a fixed period to gain passage to America.

Middle Classes in Colonial America

• The middle class consisted of professional individuals, artisans, and farmers, representing a diverse and essential part of colonial society.

Factors Influencing Social Status

• The ability of colonists to enhance their social status largely depended on transportation and effective communication, crucial for economic and social mobility.