Middle Colonies: Geography, Economy, Government, and Indigenous Peoples

What was the geography of the Middle Colonies like?

Diverse, featuring mountains, hills, and flat plains.

What type of climate did the Middle Colonies have?

Moderate climate with long growing seasons due to plenty of rain and sunlight.

What crops were commonly grown in the Middle Colonies?

Wheat, barley, and oats.

Why were the Middle Colonies referred to as the 'breadbasket' of British North America?

Due to their rich, fertile soil that supported large grain production.

What types of tools were produced in the Middle Colonies?

Iron tools such as plows, nails, and kettles.

How did natural harbors benefit the Middle Colonies?

They facilitated trade by allowing ships to load and unload goods.

What were the two types of government in the Middle Colonies?

Royal Governments and Proprietary Governments.

How were colonies governed under a Royal Government?

By governors appointed by the king.

Who selected leaders in Proprietary Governments?

Members of the colony instead of the king.

What rights were guaranteed by many constitutions in the Middle Colonies?

Religious freedom and no taxation without representation.

What ship did the Quakers travel to the colonies on?

The Welcome.

What belief system did the Quakers hold regarding worship?

People should be free to worship and communicate with God in their own unique way.

What is a notable principle of Quaker beliefs?

Opposition to violence in any form.

What did the Lenape believe about living things?

All living things have life-spirits, and their creator god is named Kishelemukong.

What type of clan system did the Lenape practice?

A matrilineal clan system, tracing lineage through the mother.

Which Indigenous groups were present in the area that became the Middle Colonies?

The Secatouge and the Susquehannock.

Who was the founder of Pennsylvania?

William Penn.

Which English sea explorer is known for exploring parts of Canada and the Northeastern U.S.?

Henry Hudson.

What were the four Middle Colonies?

New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.