Both the colonial wealthy class and the middle class had certain similarities in their lifestyles and opportunities, particularly when it came to access to education and material culture.
-
Fashion and Material Culture: Members of both classes often aimed to dress in the latest European fashions. The wealthy could afford the finest garments, but even those in the middle class sought to emulate styles and trends from Europe, at least to some extent, as a way to signal their social status.
-
Education: Education was increasingly accessible in the colonies, and both classes valued education, though the wealthy had more resources to pursue higher education. The emergence of schools and literacy in the colonies allowed a broader segment of society, including the middle class, to gain access to schooling.
-
Land Ownership: While both classes may have aspired to own land, true land ownership was more common among the wealthy. The middle class could also own land, but it was often less extensive and may not have been a defining characteristic of their status.
-
Employment: Both classes featured skilled laborers, particularly as the economy developed. The wealthy often had access to positions of status and authority, while skilled workers from the middle class worked in trades or crafts.
In summary, while the wealthy and middle-class colonists shared some experiences, such as a desire for fashionable clothing and an appreciation for education, their social standing and access to resources significantly diverged. The best option from your question would focus on aspects like fashion or access to education.