The settlement patterns of New England and Southern colonies are similar as the pioneer members of both colonies immigrated from England. In addition, they practiced self-rule by observing their own cultural beliefs and rules. However, they differed in various aspects, especially in social and economic life. People in southern territory focused on wealth from plantations while New England occupants participated in church activities. Drive for wealth channeled plantation owners to increase the slave trade in the south. In contrast, New England embraced democracy in the leadership of the colonies. New England was developed after the Pequot war due to its rich oceans, whereas southern colonies originated with a focus on plantation farming, which used many slaves. Religion was significant as it influenced various aspects of the settlements. Puritanism was the main focus in New England as the natives fully incorporated it into their leadership (Brekus, 2018). Baptist and Anglican churches in Southern colonies increased church-going but did not divert people’s primary focus from wealth. Thus,
In comparison, New England and Middle colonial settlements were self-governed. Unlike New England and Southern colonies, Middle colonies were pioneered by Dutch immigrants. The Middle colonies were established either as trade centers, like New York, as the Quakers’ safe places, such as Pennsylvania, or as farming. Unlike New England, the Middle colonies were not significantly influenced by religion as they had the freedom to decide on their faith. Notably, Quakers influenced the Middle colonies by addressing the discrimination of native Americans. Moreover, religion publicly condemned slavery in America, increasing concern for their human rights. Southern and Middle colony settlers practiced farming, while those in New England were mainly into fishing. In conclusion, settlement patterns in New England, Middle, and Southern colonies were defined by religion and the founders of the territories.
Reference
Brekus, C. A. (2018). Contested words: History, America, religion. William & Mary Quarterly, 75(1), 3-36. Web.