Chesapeake Colonies: Set up in 1617. One of the main areas colonized by the British during the 16th and early 17th centuries. Made up of modern-day Virginia and Maryland. Were based off of production of cash crops, namely tobacco. Heavy importers of African slaves for labor on farms and plantations. Middle Colonies: Made up of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. The Middle Colonies had rich soil, allowing the area to become a major exporter of wheat and other grains. The lumber and shipbuilding industries enjoyed success in the Middle Colonies because of the abundant forests, and Pennsylvania saw moderate success in the textile and iron industry. The Middle Colonies were the most ethnically and religiously diverse British colonies in North America, with settlers coming from all parts of Europe. Civil unrest in Europe and other colonies saw an influx of immigrants to the Middle Colonies in the 18th century. With the new arrivals came various religions which were protected in the Middle Colonies by written freedom of religion laws. This tolerance was unusual and distinct from other British colonies. Southern Atlantic Seaboard Colonies: Made up of Virginia, North and South Carolina, and Georgia. The Southern colonies had fertile farmlands which contributed to the rise of cash crops such as rice, tobacco, and indigo. Plantations developed as nearly subsistent communities. Slavery allowed wealthy aristocrats and large landowners to cultivate huge tracts of land. New England Colonies: Made up of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Started with the Plymouth settlement in 1622. New Englanders were heavily influenced by Puritan beliefs, and a strong work ethic. Set up a colony around shipping and merchant practices, as well as the sale of lumber.