- Farming was the primary occupation for many colonists. They grew a variety of crops, including tobacco, corn, wheat, and vegetables, for their own consumption and for trade.
- Livestock raising was also common, with colonists raising cattle, pigs, and chickens for meat and dairy products.
Fishing and Whaling:
- Many colonists lived near the coast and relied on fishing and whaling for their livelihood. They caught fish such as cod, mackerel, and herring, which were dried, salted, or smoked for preservation.
- Whaling was a particularly lucrative industry, as whale oil was used for lighting and in various industrial processes.
Trade and Commerce:
- Colonists engaged in trade with Native American tribes, as well as with other colonies and European countries.
- They exported raw materials such as tobacco, timber, and furs in exchange for manufactured goods, such as clothing, tools, and household items.
Indentured Servitude and Slavery:
- Some colonists relied on indentured servitude, a system in which individuals agreed to work for a set period of time (usually 4 to 7 years) in exchange for their passage to the colonies and other necessities.
- African slavery was also practiced in many colonies, with enslaved people forced to work on plantations and in other industries.
Craftsmanship and Artisanship:
- Skilled craftsmen, such as blacksmiths, carpenters, and weavers, provided essential services to the community and were able to earn a living from their trade.
Mining:
- Some colonies had abundant mineral resources, such as iron ore and coal. Mining these resources provided employment opportunities and contributed to the economic development of the colonies.