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Regional Differences Between The New England And The Chesapeake Region

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Although New England, primarily Massachusetts, and the Chesapeake, primarily Virginia, were both settled largely by people of English origin, by 1700 the regions had evolved into two distinct societies. This difference in development occurred for the following three reasons: the geography, purpose of both colonies, and the priorities. The geography of each region was vastly different. In the New England colonies, the rocky landscape resulted in a short growing season. This contributed to a rise in use of abundant natural resources, such as lumber, which made a successful ship building industry. On the other hand, in the Chesapeake region, rich farmland and forests provided colonists with perfect harvest conditions. In 1673, Governor Berkeley confirmed Virginia was intersected with many vast rivers as seen in Doc. G, demonstrating their rich soil. The geography of the Chesapeake area was more …show more content…

The New England colonies were mainly founded for spiritual purposes. Massachusetts was established by Reformist Puritans in search for religious freedom. Their motives were religious, not economic. The Articles of Agreement for Springfield, MA, 1636 in Doc. D, stated how the colony intended to appoint a minister. This objective was first on a list of agreements made by the colonists, being the most important. Although religion was the main reason for this region's founding, the Chesapeake Bay area had different motives. Their settlers hoped to find gold or at least make a profit in some way. The area was very industry-based, as shown in their use of indentured servants, slaves, and harvest of the cash crop, tobacco. Doc. F, written in 1624 by John Smith, recalls the first settlers and their goals, by stating, “There was no talk...but dig gold, wash gold, refine gold, load gold…”. The main priority was money. Religion did not play a large part here; the region thrived on making

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