Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

Which region of the United States had a mix of both agricultural and industrial economies due to its natural resources?

1. Southern Colonies

2. New England Colonies

3. Middle Colonies

4. Western Territories

The correct answer is: Middle Colonies

The Middle Colonies were known for having a diverse economy that effectively combined both agriculture and industry, largely due to their rich natural resources. This region included states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, which benefitted from fertile land that supported the cultivation of grains such as wheat and corn, earning it the nickname "the breadbasket" of the colonies. In addition to agriculture, the Middle Colonies also had access to natural resources such as iron ore and timber, which fostered the growth of various manufacturing and industrial activities. The location of the Middle Colonies contributed to their economic diversity as well. Their proximity to major waterways facilitated trade and transportation, allowing for both agricultural goods to be exported and industrial products to be manufactured and shipped. This combination enabled a thriving economy that was not strictly dependent on either agriculture or industry alone, making it distinct compared to other regions such as the Southern Colonies, which relied heavily on plantation agriculture, or New England, which was more focused on commerce and maritime activities without the same level of agricultural production. Thus, the mixed economy of the Middle Colonies, supported by natural resources, positions it as the correct choice.