Differences Between New England And Chesapeake

"Although New England and the Chesapeake region were both settled largely by people of English origin, by 1700 the regions had evolved into two distinct societies.

Why did this difference in development occur?"

Darwin had proved that all breeds of life have derived from a common ancestor. The modern differences however to these breeds are the product of the influences brought by their changing environments. This concept largely applies to the differences in the societies belonging to the Chesapeake and New England regions. These settlements, although originated from a common area, had by 1700 grown into two dissimilar societies, each with their own distinct features. Their unique environments filled with their own ideas for government, views on religion, economy, and structure for social life produced a grand difference in the development of the regions. Although they both derived of an English origin, they each underwent a unique metamorphosis which spawned a new life.

The majority of people arriving in the new world were of English origin during the 1600s, of course not all of these people were leaving England for the same reason. The list of emigrants bound for New England in March of 1635 displayed a large account of families. (Document B) Families were brought over in hope of starting a new life, one in which they would never return to England, otherwise they would have never bothered with the burden of such a life changing event. The idea of starting a new life of religious salvation in this region, ultimately creating the "prefect society" fueled the emigrants passion for arriving in New England, however, emigrants bound for Virginia did not hold the same morality. These soon to be residents of the Chesapeake region were embarked in the Merchant's Hope. (Document C) They did not wish to begin a new life in a pure religious society, these individuals were searching for gold, silver, and whatever would entitle them to financial prosperity.

The society of the New Englanders was based on a large concept of unity. This unity was acquired from the similar outlook upon religion by the inhabitants. People in New England followed the golden rule of Christianity of treating others as you would like to be treated. This morality lead people to bond together in times of need, to show patience, sincerity, and liberality to their neighbors. (Document A) It was of high importance in New England to make sure everyone was entitled to their fair share, as was seen just. Massachusetts in 1636 stated in the Articles of Agreement that "everyone shall have a share of the meadow or planting ground" (Document D). Not entitling people to a proportion of land would be unchristian because taking land away, or never giving it in the first place, is not something a person would wish to be brought upon them. By denying this incentive it would be in such a sense denying the faith because it goes against the principle foundation in the religion. In New England though for having been able to create a union of people through God in which everyone helped each other, the society functioned for the best interest in the welfare