How did geography impact the agricultural practices of early colonists in New England?

Geography significantly influenced the agricultural practices of early colonists in New England, leading to the development of small farms and a strong emphasis on fishing. The New England region is characterized by rocky soil and a cooler climate, making it less suitable for large-scale agricultural practices typically associated with cash crops found in the Southern colonies. As a result, the colonists adapted by cultivating small plots for subsistence farming, focusing on crops that could thrive in the local conditions, such as corn and beans, while also engaging in fishing and trade with maritime resources.

The geographical landscape, including numerous rivers and access to the Atlantic Ocean, also provided ample opportunities for fishing, which became a crucial part of the economy. This reliance on both small-scale agriculture and fishing illustrates how geography shaped the economic and social structures of New England colonies, leading to a diverse economy rather than a plantation-based one.