Colonial Society and Culture
Joseph Brown
9 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers Colonial America (1600-1750), focusing on colonial diversity and identity, the First Great Awakening, European influence, and early conflicts. Key topics include ethnic/racial composition, shifting identities, religious landscape, the Enlightenment, mercantilism, salutary neglect, and important conflicts like King Philip's War and Bacon's Rebellion. The guide also provides practice questions (multiple choice and free response) and exam tips.
#AP US History Study Guide: Colonial America (1600-1750)
Hey there, future AP US History master! Let's break down the key concepts of colonial America. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially when you're in the final stretch before the exam. We'll make sure you're not just memorizing facts, but actually understanding the big picture. Let's get started!
#1. Colonial Diversity and Identity
#1.1. Ethnic and Racial Composition
- Changing Demographics: The colonies weren't just English! They were a melting pot (though not always harmonious) of various European groups and Africans.
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By 1775, while the English were still the largest group, significant populations of Africans, Scots-Irish, and Germans were present.
| Year | English/Welsh | African | Scots-Irish | German | Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1700 | 80.0% | 11.0% | 3.0% | N/A | 6.0% |
| 1755 | 52.0% | 20.0% | 7.0% | 7.0% | 14.0% |
| 1775 | 48.7% | 20.0% | 7.8% | 6.9% | 16.6% |
#1.2. Key Concept
Shifting Identities
- European vs. American: Were the colonists more European or American? It's a mix! They brought European traditions, but the New World environment and experiences shaped a unique identity.
- Blending and Conflict: Different ethnic and religious groups brought their own beliefs, which both blended and conflicted, creating a dynamic society.
Practice Question
Multiple Choice:
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Which of the following best describes the demographic trend in the British colonies between 1700 and 1775? (A) A decrease in the proportion of the English population. (B) A rapid increase in the proportion of the Dutch population. (C) A decline in the number of African slaves. (D) A decrease in the overall diversity of the colonies.
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The presence of diverse European ethnic groups in the colonies led to which of the following? (A) A unified political system. (B) A decrease in social conflict. (C) A blending and conflicting of cultural beliefs. (D) A rapid decline in religious diversity.
#2. The First Great Awakening
#2.1. Religious Landscape
- Predominant Religion: Protestantism was the main religion, but there was also religious diversity. *
Jews in New York/New Jersey and Catholics in Maryland also practiced their faiths.
#2.2. The Great Awakening
- Revival Movement: A religious reviva...
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