Surviving Economically
The economy of the Rhode Island colony was based on two things: agriculture and the ocean. The natural resources allowed Rhode Island to survive economically by creating businesses and growing food. Most of the colony, especially in the northern areas, became farms for both animals and produce. In the southern areas, mostly on the coast, the main occupations were shipbuilding, whaling, and fishing. Rhode Island supplied more inland regions and colonies with whale products, mainly oil, and other ocean goods. It was also a major port for shipping and trade across seas.
|