Colonial America: Society, Religion, and Economy (1700s)

What contributed to the Europeanization of America?

Armed conflicts and the enrichment of merchant princes through military supplies.

What percentage of Bostonians and Philadelphians owned property by mid-century?

About 10%.

What social issues arose from the wealth disparities in colonial America?

A class of widows and orphans became dependent on charity, and the poor population was small compared to Britain.

What happened to the average size of farms in colonial America?

The average size of farms shrank drastically due to subdivision.

What was the impact of the Puritan Awakening on religious practices?

It weakened traditional clergy authority and increased religious diversity.

What was the role of Jonathan Edwards during the Great Awakening?

He reignited fear of dependence on God's grace and emphasized the need for a conversion experience.

How did George Whitefield contribute to the Great Awakening?

He electrified audiences with emotional and dramatic preaching.

What were 'New Lights' and how did they differ from 'Old Lights'?

'New Lights' embraced emotional religion while 'Old Lights' were skeptical of revival.

What was the significance of new light colleges founded during the Great Awakening?

Colleges like Princeton, Brown, and Dartmouth were established, reflecting the movement's impact on education.

What was the status of education in colonial America compared to Britain?

Colonists broke away from the view that education was a privilege for wealthy males.

What were indentured servants, and what opportunities did they have?

Indentured servants achieved prosperity and some even signed the Declaration of Independence.

What was the perception of black slaves in colonial society?

They were at the lowest social level with no equality and little hope for opportunity.

What was the impact of the slave trade on colonial society?

It created wealth for the largest slave owners and increased social disparities. Many white colonists wanted to stop the slave trade in fear of rebellion

What professions were highly regarded in colonial America?

The Christian ministry, physicians, and lawyers were among the most honored professions.

What challenges did physicians face in colonial America?

They dealt with high mortality rates from epidemics like smallpox and diphtheria.

What was the focus of early education in New England?

Education was primarily for religious purposes, aiming to train good Christians.

How did the curriculum in colonial schools differ across regions?

Curriculums focused on religion and Latin, with little time spent on sciences.

What was the trend in college enrollment in the colonies by the 1750s?

College enrollment began to shift from theology to a broader curriculum.