Economic and Social Activities in Colonial Massachusetts

1. Agriculture

Corn, wheat, barley, vegetables for subsistence.

2. Fishing & Whaling

Cod, haddock, mackerel; provided food, oil, export income.

3. Shipbuilding

Coastline + timber → merchant, fishing, naval vessels.

4. Lumbering

Forests supplied construction, shipbuilding, fuel.

5. Fur Trade

Traded beaver pelts, deer hides with Native tribes.

6. Trade & Commerce

Boston as hub; transatlantic & Caribbean trade.

7. Manufacturing

Ironworks, sawmills, gristmills emerged with population growth.

8. Religious Life

Puritan dominance; mandatory church attendance shaped society.

9. Education

Early commitment; Harvard College founded 1636.

10. Politics & Governance

Elected reps, town meetings, General Court—self-governance model.

These activities built Massachusetts' prosperity and lasting influence.