Agricultural Economy

Definition

An agricultural economy is a system where agriculture plays a central role in the overall economic structure, focusing on the production of crops and livestock as the primary sources of wealth and livelihood. In this context, agricultural economies were critical to the expansion of New England settlements, influencing their social, cultural, and economic development. The reliance on farming and related activities shaped community organization, trade patterns, and regional differences across New England.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New England's agricultural economy was characterized by small farms that primarily produced grains, vegetables, and livestock for local consumption rather than large-scale cash crops.
2. The region's rocky soil and harsh climate influenced farming practices, leading to innovations such as crop rotation and diversification of crops to maximize yields.
3. Communities often depended on a combination of farming, fishing, and trade due to the limited agricultural output, which contributed to varied economic activities in different towns.
4. Agricultural practices varied widely between coastal areas, where fishing was also significant, and inland regions that focused more heavily on farming.
5. The growth of towns and communities in New England was directly tied to agricultural production, as farms provided food and resources necessary for supporting larger populations.

Review Questions

• How did the characteristics of New England's agricultural economy influence settlement patterns during its expansion?
  • The agricultural economy in New England significantly influenced settlement patterns as families established small farms that prioritized subsistence farming. This led to a dispersed settlement model where communities formed around agricultural hubs, allowing for local self-sufficiency. Additionally, the geographical limitations of rocky soil and harsh climate prompted settlers to innovate farming methods like crop rotation, further affecting where and how communities developed.
• Discuss the impact of regional agricultural practices on trade relationships among New England settlements.
  • Regional agricultural practices created distinct economic identities among New England settlements, fostering trade relationships based on complementary resources. Coastal towns often engaged in fishing and maritime trade, while inland areas focused more on farming. This interdependence allowed settlements to exchange goods such as fish for grains or livestock, creating a network that strengthened local economies and enabled communities to thrive despite varying agricultural outputs.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of an agricultural economy on New England's social structure and cultural development.
  • The agricultural economy in New England played a crucial role in shaping its social structure and cultural development over time. As small farm communities grew, they fostered a sense of independence and self-reliance among settlers. This not only led to unique cultural practices rooted in agrarian life but also contributed to the establishment of democratic ideals within these communities. Furthermore, the reliance on agriculture encouraged cooperation among neighbors for tasks such as harvesting, leading to strong community ties that defined social interactions and local governance.

Related terms

Subsistence Farming: A type of farming where farmers grow enough food to feed themselves and their families, with little surplus for sale.

Crop Rotation: An agricultural practice involving the rotation of different crops on the same land to maintain soil fertility and reduce pest buildup.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that emphasizes the role of government in regulating international trade to ensure national prosperity, often involving agriculture as a key component.