18th Century New England Immigration

Between 1700 and 1770, New England colonies became more diverse. By 1770, the colonies became less Anglo and less white. Immigrants included Scots, Scots-Irish, Africans, Germans as well as a small percentage of English.

Many came for different reasons--either to escape war or poverty. Each group brought different religions and of course, language and culture.

While European immigrants came by choice, those from Africa did not. Most were slaves or servants. They are an example of forced migration.

Slavery in the colonies varied by region. Slaves in the north, if ever used, were used mostly for domestic work or raising livestock. Slaves in the south were primarily used for agriculture as southern crops depended on slave labor -- tobacco, rice, indigo, sugar, etc. Slave labor was necessary for he southern economy and to provide the old world with new world products.

For some, slavery and indentured servitude were the same thing. However, an indentured servant was only under a master for 4 to 7 years, while slaves were under complete control for their entire lives.

Some servants and slaves were able to buy their freedom. Olaudah Equiano (Gustavus Vass) was able to buy his freedom and publish his own narrative. He mentions how he was kidnapped and how he spent most of his life as a sailor.

African contributions to the new world include the banjoy, sweet potato, and musical rhythms.

The 18th Century also experienced The Great Awakening. Revivals led by George Whitefield and Jonathan Edwards along with other preachers brought a new sense of spiritual enlightenment to the colonies.