Primary motivation for England to establish colonies in North America during the 17th century

Definition

The primary motivation for England to establish colonies in North America during the 17th century was driven by a combination of economic interests, religious freedom, and competition with other European powers. This colonization was largely influenced by the desire for wealth, particularly through the establishment of trade routes and resources, as well as the need to find new markets for English goods. Additionally, England sought to expand its influence and counter rivals like Spain and France in the race for territorial dominance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Economic motivations included seeking valuable resources such as tobacco, which became a major cash crop and vital to England's economy.
2. Competition with Spain and France was fierce; England aimed to assert its power by claiming land and establishing colonies before its rivals could expand.
3. Religious freedom played a crucial role, especially for groups like the Puritans and Pilgrims, who wanted to escape persecution in England.
4. The establishment of colonies served as a strategic move for England to strengthen its naval power and control over the Atlantic trade routes.
5. The early colonies often faced hardships but laid the groundwork for future expansion and migration, ultimately leading to the development of thirteen distinct colonies.

Review Questions

• What were the economic motivations behind England's decision to establish colonies in North America during the 17th century?
  • England's decision to establish colonies in North America was heavily influenced by economic motivations focused on wealth accumulation. The pursuit of valuable resources such as tobacco, which became a lucrative cash crop, was a primary driver. Additionally, establishing trade routes and markets for English goods was essential for boosting England's economy, demonstrating how economic interests shaped colonization efforts.
• Analyze how religious motivations influenced the establishment of English colonies in North America during this period.
  • Religious motivations significantly influenced the establishment of English colonies, particularly for groups seeking freedom from persecution. The Puritans and Pilgrims were among those who fled England in search of a place where they could practice their faith without interference. Their desire for religious freedom contributed to the founding of settlements like Plymouth and Massachusetts Bay, highlighting how faith-driven objectives complemented economic aspirations in colonial endeavors.
• Evaluate the impact of competition with other European powers on England's colonization strategies in North America during the 17th century.
  • Competition with Spain and France profoundly affected England's colonization strategies in North America. As these nations expanded their territories and established lucrative colonies, England felt compelled to assert its presence to prevent losing ground. This rivalry drove England to secure land claims swiftly and invest in settlement efforts to counterbalance its competitors' influence, ultimately shaping the geopolitical landscape of colonial North America and laying the foundation for future conflicts over territory.

Related terms

Mercantilism:

An economic theory that emphasizes the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and colonization, guiding England's colonial policies.

Jamestown:

The first permanent English settlement in North America, established in 1607, serving as a significant example of England's colonization efforts.

Puritans:

A religious group seeking to reform the Church of England who established colonies in North America to practice their faith freely.