Section+3+The+Commercial+North

=The Northern Colonies=

The Northern colonies developed a predominantly urban society, based on commerce and trade.

- The theory of mercantilism held that colonies existed to help the home country amass wealth. However, the American colonies found their own economy prospering more. From 1650 to 1750, the colonies’ economy grew twice as fast as Great Britain’s economy did. Much of this growth occurred in the New England and middle colonies. - Instead of having one major crop, the Northern colonies harvested several crops that helped build their economy. - Farmers raised a variety of crops and livestock, including wheat, corn, cattle, and hogs

- Commercial economy also developed in the New England and Middle colonies. Wheat, fish and lumber became very prosperous industries. Colonists also manufactured ships and iron. - By 1760, the colonists had built one-third of all British ships and were producing more iron than England was.

-Northerners had less desire to turn to slavery than Southerners. Most enslaved persons in New England were considered property, yet enjoyed greater legal standing than slaves elsewhere in the colonies. They could sue and be sued, and they had the right of appeal to the highest courts.