What characterized the New England Colonies in their economic activities?

The New England Colonies were characterized by their deep harbors, which facilitated trade and commerce. These harbors allowed for easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, enabling shipbuilding and fishing industries to flourish. The geographic features of the region, including a rugged coastline and excellent ports, supported a thriving maritime economy. This economic activity was pivotal given that the climate and soil conditions in New England were not conducive to large-scale agriculture, which meant that farming was often small-scale and focused on subsistence rather than cash crops. The combination of deep harbors, a strong maritime culture, and a focus on trade and fishing underscored the economic identity of the New England Colonies.