Final answer:
The New England Colonies were founded for religious freedom, particularly by Puritans, except Rhode Island which embraced tolerance. The Middle Colonies excelled in economic growth and featured significant ethnic and religious diversity. The Southern Colonies were established mainly for profit and trade, with plantations playing a central role.
Step-by-step explanation:
Colonial Regions and Their Foundations
The New England Colonies were settled primarily for reasons of religious freedom. Focused on strict adherence to Calvinist doctrine, the Puritans established colonies with a religious orientation right from the start in the early 17th century, especially marked by places like Massachusetts. However, Rhode Island stood out for its religious and social toleration, being founded by refugees such as Roger Williams who sought to escape the Puritan orthodoxy of Massachusetts.
The Middle Colonies were known for their economic growth, prosperity, and higher levels of ethnic and religious diversity. This tolerance was a result of heterogeneous settlements and the pragmatic and tolerant approach propelled by individuals' accommodative and competitive nature.
The Southern Colonies were settled primarily for profit and trade, with plantations being a common feature. This included colonies like Virginia, where early settlers sought to rise in the ranks of gentry, reflecting the goal of transplanting English ideals to the new setting.