Chapter 4 Flashcards
What is subsistence farming?
A system of farming in which colonists grew just enough crops for themselves and families and a little extra for trade.
What is commercial agriculture?
the production of crops and farm animals for sale, usually with the use of modern technology
Why did New England farmers practice subsistence farming?
The soil was rocky and the long winters made for a short growing season
What were the two main industries of the New England colonies?
ship building and fishing
What is the triangular trade?
a system of trade of goods and slaves between Africa, South America, the colonies, and Europe
What was the name of the slave transporting leg of the Triangular Trade?
- merchant ships brought goods to Africa 2. Slaves were brought to the Americas and traded for sugar, molasses, and sugar 3. Those products were traded for other colonial goods and shipped to Europe
What is a cash crop?
farm crop raised to be sold for money
What were the two main cash crops of the Middle Colonies?
Tobacco and Indigo
What was the main economic activity in all colonies?
Farming