Final answer:
The Southern Colonies in the 1600s were founded for economic reasons, focusing on cash crops and trade with England. They also provided religious freedom and served as a buffer between other colonies. The use of indentured servants and slaves played a significant role in the labor force.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Southern Colonies in the 1600s were founded primarily for economic reasons. They focused on cash crops such as tobacco, rice, and indigo, which were grown and exported back to England. Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia were all founded during this time period for various reasons, including religious freedom and as a buffer between other colonies. The Southern Colonies also relied heavily on the use of indentured servants and later turned to imported slaves for labor.