The Southern colonies, which included Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, were established in the 17th and 18th centuries. These colonies were known for their warm climate and fertile soil, making them ideal for agriculture. The economy primarily relied on cash crops like tobacco, rice, and indigo, which were often grown on large plantations. The Southern colonies had a distinct social structure, with a wealthy planter class at the top and many enslaved Africans working on the plantations. This reliance on slavery significantly shaped the culture and economy of the region, leading to a society that was heavily focused on agriculture and trade.