- Established plantations and grew cash crops like tobacco and cotton for export, leading to their involvement in a global trade network.
- Developed shipbuilding and fishing industries to support transatlantic trade.
2. Trading with Native Americans:
- Enganged in trade with indigenous tribes, exchanging tools, weapons, and other goods for various resources like corn and animal skins.
3. Exploration:
- Sent out exploration missions, discovering and claiming new territories in the Americas, such as the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
4. Religious Freedom:
- Provided refuge for religious dissenters escaping persecution in Europe, most notably the Pilgrims who established the Plymouth Colony.
5. Missionary Work:
- Attempted to convert Native Americans to Christianity, leading to the establishment of missions and the spread of religious beliefs.
6. Governing Structure:
- Established colonial governments with elected assemblies and appointed governors, setting the foundation for future democratic systems.
7. Social Hierarchy:
- Maintained a hierarchical society with wealthy landowners at the top, followed by merchants, artisans, and indentured servants.
8. Expansion of the Empire:
- Increased the territorial claims and influence of the British Empire, competing with other European powers for dominance.
9. Cultural Exchange:
- Witnessed the exchange of ideas, technologies, and cultural practices between European settlers and Native American populations.