How did trade affect the economy of northern colonies?

Trade significantly boosted the economy of the northern colonies by fostering commerce and encouraging economic diversification. The establishment of ports, such as Boston and New York, facilitated the exchange of goods like timber, fish, and rum, while also enabling trade with Europe and the Caribbean. This economic activity led to the growth of a merchant class and increased wealth, contributing to urban development and a more complex economic structure. Additionally, trade networks helped integrate the northern colonies into the broader Atlantic economy, enhancing their economic resilience and interdependence.