The original British colonists settled and established colonies along the east coast of what is now the United States for a variety of political, religious, and economic reasons. Many sought to make money through trade and resource exploitation, escape religious persecution, achieve political freedom, and compete with other European powers like Spain and France. England's charter companies funded colonization to expand its influence and economic reach, while many individual settlers sought better living conditions, social mobility, and opportunities unavailable in England. Colonies such as Virginia were initially focused on resource extraction and profit through cash crops like tobacco, whereas colonies like Plymouth were founded for religious freedom by groups fleeing religious conflicts in England. Overall, the east coast location provided access to trade routes, natural resources, and defensible positions against rival European powers.