This week our readings went from discussing how Europeans explored and colonized the western hemisphere, early Georgia colonial history, and British North America prior to the revolution. Each European country approached their experiences differently in how they treated Native Americans, other Europeans, Africans, and the natural environments in which they tried to survive. Basically, these boil down to cultural and environmental influences.

Question

Of these which do you think was most influential in shaping colonial societies in what would become the British North American colonies? Please give some specific examples from the readings that would defend your position. Don't forget to give a substantiative comment on at least one of your classmates' posts.

Answer 1

I believe that the cultural influences were the most influential in shaping colonial societies in British North America. The values, traditions, and beliefs that the European settlers brought with them had a profound impact on how they interacted with the Native Americans, Europeans from other countries, Africans, and the natural environment.

For example, the Puritans who settled in New England had a strong belief in hard work, education, and a strict moral code. This led to the establishment of highly organized and self-sufficient communities that placed a strong emphasis on education and religion. In contrast, the Jamestown settlers in Virginia were primarily motivated by economic gain, which led to the exploitation of both African slaves and Native Americans in their quest for wealth.

Additionally, the cultural differences between the French and English settlers in North America played a significant role in shaping colonial societies. The French tended to have more cooperative relationships with the Native Americans, often intermarrying and trading with them, while the English often viewed the Native Americans as obstacles to be overcome in their quest for land and resources.

Overall, I believe that the cultural influences brought by the European settlers had the most significant impact on shaping colonial societies in British North America. These values and beliefs not only shaped how the colonists interacted with each other and with other groups, but also laid the foundation for the development of unique social, political, and economic systems in the colonies.

One of my classmates is also interested in exploring the role of cultural influences in shaping colonial societies in British North America. I look forward to reading their perspective and engaging in a discussion on this topic.