During the 17th century many people left England to come to the “New World” for a variety of reasons, most commonly in search of money or freedom of religion. Therefore it is not possible to provide a clear answer to the question of why the English colonized North America. (Throughout the New England, Middle, and Southern colonies the same two main reasons for coming to North America emerge.) Each of the colonies places a little more emphasis on money or religious freedom. For example, the people of Rhode Island, founded by Williams in 1636, fled religious persecution. Unlike those in New York, originally founded by Hudson in 1613, who came to get rich. However these are not the only reasons for the establishment of colonies, they are the most widespread. The people who settled the New England colonies from about 1620 to 1640 placed great importance on religious freedom. They wanted to “keep their families together and practice their religion.” (americanhistory.about.com) This quote says it all, they just wanted to keep their families close and have total freedom to practice their chosen religion. People in the New England colonies, particularly Rhode Island, were fleeing religious persecution – they didn't come for money as much as some people in the other colonies. The Middle colonies (established between 1610 and 1685) received those settlers who where coming both for freedom of religion and for money. “They were trying to practice their religion (mostly Pennsylvania) or make money.” (americanhistory.about.com) Once again this quote perfectly articulates the point being made. The middle colonies were torn between money and religious freedom. Finally, the southern colonies (established between 1600 and 1735) had a majority of people seeking money. With the exception of Georgia, which sought to protect the Carolinas from Spain, the others sought money on the plantations. All of this is summed up in a quote that states, “The founders of the Southern colonies were, for the most part, intent on making money.” (americanhistory.about.com) This is all that, in this respect, can be said about the Southern colonies.