How were the New England and Chesapeake colonies distinctively different?

Answer by  Jon90 (31)

The New England Colonies had less farming due to its rocky terrain and harsh winters, and increased shipbuilding and fishing. Middle Colonies had bigger harvests and greater religious diversity.

Answer by  TZ16 (367)

The Chesapeake colonies were founded by the Virginia Company. These colonies were founded to make money. The colonists there were mostly from the Church of England with a very small number of Catholics in Maryland only. The New England colonies were first settled by religious protesters (Puritans) to be free from the established Church of England, not to make profit.