3.in which region did towns and educational institutions shape society? -southern -mid-atlantic -new england 4. which group held the most political power in the southern colonies? -ordinary farmers -indentured sergeants -educated women -coastal planters 5. the presence of which pair of geographic conditions discourage the development of a plantation economy in the new england colonies? -rocky soul and short growing season -flatlands and lack of forests -wise coastal plain and absence of good harbors. -numerous rivers and humid climate 6. which did not develop as a major colonial port city? -boston -wilimington -philadelphia -charleston -new york city 7. the english political tradition which states that every member of society, even the king, must obey the law is the principle -the magna carta -the english bill of rights -colonial charters granted by the king -the rule of law.