Atlantic Coast

Definition

The Atlantic Coast refers to the eastern seaboard of the United States that stretches from Maine in the north to Florida in the south. This region played a critical role in the early history and development of the United States, serving as a major hub for trade, settlement, and cultural exchange between Europe and the Americas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Atlantic Coast was the first area of North America settled by Europeans, with colonies established by the English, French, Dutch, and Spanish.
2. Major cities along the Atlantic Coast, such as Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Charleston, became key centers for trade and cultural exchange in colonial America.
3. The Atlantic Coast's geography provided natural harbors and resources that were crucial for shipping and commerce, supporting both local economies and transatlantic trade.
4. The coast was heavily influenced by various immigrant groups who brought their cultures and traditions, shaping a diverse social landscape in early American society.
5. The Atlantic Coast served as a focal point for significant historical events like the American Revolution and the War of 1812, as many battles took place in this region.

Review Questions

• How did the geography of the Atlantic Coast influence early colonial settlement patterns?
  • The geography of the Atlantic Coast played a vital role in determining where early colonists chose to settle. The presence of natural harbors allowed ships to dock safely and facilitated trade with Europe. Additionally, fertile land along rivers and estuaries supported agriculture, attracting settlers looking for economic opportunities. This strategic positioning enabled cities like Boston and New York to emerge as bustling trade hubs early on.
• In what ways did transatlantic trade impact the economy and society of the Atlantic Coast during colonial times?
  • Transatlantic trade was a driving force behind the economy of the Atlantic Coast, as it linked European markets with colonial resources such as tobacco, rice, and timber. This exchange created significant wealth for merchants and led to the development of port cities as centers of commerce. Socially, this trade fostered a mix of cultures through interactions among European settlers, African slaves brought via the Middle Passage, and Native American tribes.
• Evaluate how events along the Atlantic Coast contributed to the emergence of American identity during the colonial period.
  • Events along the Atlantic Coast significantly shaped American identity by fostering a sense of unity among colonists against European powers. The shared experiences of settlement challenges, trade reliance, and conflicts with Indigenous peoples encouraged collaboration among diverse groups. Additionally, pivotal events like the Boston Tea Party galvanized resistance against British rule, leading to a collective American identity that valued independence and self-governance. These developments set the stage for future revolutionary movements as colonists began to see themselves as distinct from their European origins.

Related terms

Colonial America:

The period of American history from the early 17th century to the American Revolution, when European powers established colonies along the Atlantic Coast.

Transatlantic Trade:

The trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas, which facilitated the exchange of goods, people, and ideas during the colonial period.

Mercantilism:

An economic theory that dominated European colonial policy, emphasizing the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and establishing a favorable balance of exports over imports.