Before the French and Indian War, few British colonists had settled west of the Appalachian
Mountains. One colonist from Massachusetts described the area in an almanac, or a
reference book. Read his description. Then answer the question below.
That fertile country to the west of the Appalachian Mountains (a string of [800]
or 900 miles in length) between Canada and the Mississippi, is of larger extent
than all France, Germany and Poland; and all well provided with rivers, a very
fine wholesome air, a rich soil, capable of producing food and physick, and all
things necessary for the conveniency and delight of life: in fine, the Garden of
the World.
physick: medicine
in fine: in other words
What does this passage suggest about the British colonists' perspective on the land west of
the Appalachian Mountains?
British colonists valued the area for religious reasons.
British colonists considered the area mysterious and frightening.
British colonists believed the area was rich in natural resources.
British colonists did not want to spoil the area by settling in it.