Which of the following best describes the economic activity of the Dutch in New Netherlands?

• A. Focusing mainly on large-scale plantation agriculture
• B. Engaging primarily in fur trading with Native Americans
• C. Developing a manufacturing-based economy
• D. Specializing in mining and metal extraction

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the historical context of New Netherlands, which was a Dutch colony in the early 17th century located in parts of what is now the northeastern United States.
2. Step 2: Understand the main economic activities of the Dutch settlers in this region by reviewing historical economic records and common practices during that period.
3. Step 3: Recognize that large-scale plantation agriculture was more characteristic of southern colonies, not New Netherlands, so this option is less likely.
4. Step 4: Recall that the Dutch economy in New Netherlands was heavily based on trade, especially fur trading with Native American tribes, which was a key source of wealth and economic activity.
5. Step 5: Note that manufacturing and mining were not the primary economic activities in New Netherlands, making fur trading the best description of their economic activity.