Unit 1: Colonial Period (1491-1763)

Answer: C — The correct answer, C, is the most likely outcome because the colonists would need to find a way to sustain themselves in the New World. Agriculture was a common solution for many early colonies, as it allowed them to produce food and other essential goods. Option A is incorrect because the colonists would likely try to find alternative solutions before abandoning their settlement. Option B is incorrect because producing textiles would require significant investment in equipment and labor, which may not be feasible for a new colony. Option D is incorrect because the English government may not provide sufficient financial support, and the colonists would need to find a way to be self-sufficient.

Answer: D — Mercantilism was the primary economic system governing colonial trade, with the goal of increasing the mother country's wealth and power. English navigation laws and trade restrictions would dictate the merchant's investment decision. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because mercantilism applies to all colonial trade, not just raw materials; laissez-faire capitalism did not exist during this time period; and communism was not an economic system present in the colonies.

Answer: A — The correct answer is A because the primary reason the English settlers came to the New World was to establish a profitable colony and expand English trade and territory. While some settlers may have also been motivated by a desire to spread Christianity (B), this was not the primary reason. Option C is incorrect because the settlers were still loyal to the English monarchy and did not intend to establish a democratic government. Option D is also incorrect because while some settlers may have been searching for gold and other precious resources, this was not the primary reason for the settlement.

Answer: B — The correct answer is B because the high demand for tobacco in England and the potential for significant profits would be a major incentive for the merchant to invest in the venture. The other options are incorrect because while a diversified economy (A) and new trade relationships (D) might be desirable outcomes, they are not the primary factor influencing the merchant's decision. The possibility of new taxes (C) might actually discourage investment, rather than encourage it.

Answer: C — The correct answer, C) Arable land, is the primary reason for the difference in economic systems between the New England colonies and the Southern colonies. The New England colonies had limited access to arable land, which led to smaller farms and a more diverse economy, while the Southern colonies had ample access to arable land, making large-scale plantation agriculture possible. Option A, Freshwater sources, is incorrect because while access to freshwater was important for colonization, it did not directly influence the types of crops grown. Option B, Mineral deposits, is also incorrect because the early colonial economy was primarily based on agriculture, not mining. Option D, Timber reserves, is incorrect because while timber was an important resource, it did not drive the differences in economic systems between the regions.