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A bay is formed when a large area of water is enclosed by land near a massive water body such as an ocean. The Massachusetts Bay is situated on the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of several bays on the Gulf of Maine in the United States. The other bays in the region include Plymouth, Cape Cod, Cape Ann, and Nahant.

Description

The Massachusetts Bay stretches for a distance of approximately 62 miles from Cape Cod to Cape Ann. It is part of the larger Gulf of Maine which extends through the coastlines of three US states namely Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. The bay’s southern and northern shores bend toward each other where they form the entrance into Boston Harbor. Massachusetts Bay’s northern shore is rough and rocky while the southern shore is marshy and primarily covered by sand. The shores of Massachusetts Bay are dotted with several harbors including Gloucester Harbor, Salem Harbor, Lynn Harbor, Boston Harbor, and Marblehead Harbor. Boston, a major city, and Massachusetts’ state capital are situated along the Massachusetts Bay.

History

Indigenous Americans initially inhabited Massachusetts Bay. The region got its name from the Massachusetts Indians who lived in the area. Starting from the early 17th century, the region became a British Colony following the immigration of Britons from England into the area. After colonization by Puritans from England, the Massachusetts Bay area became very successful and emerged as the most profitable colony in the New England region. Religion played a crucial role in the political and social life of the people of Massachusetts Bay. The Puritans strictly enforced the Puritan religion and pushed out all other religions from the area. The colonialists named the city Boston after a town in their native home of Lincolnshire, England.

People

The people who immigrated and settled in Massachusetts Bay during the 17th century were mainly well-educated wealthy Britons. A large part of the native population died from smallpox and influenza during the 1600’s. English immigrants established businesses in the area while others farmed in the land and produced bountiful harvests. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Massachusetts Bay’s economy thrived due to the rising population and economic activities. The people of Massachusetts Bay led the American Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. Currently, more than 60% of the residents in Massachusetts Bay share English ancestry while the remaining population consists of Hispanic, Asian, and African Immigrants.

Economy

Massachusetts Bay started out as an agricultural center. Later in the 19th century, the region quickly led in the industrial revolution in America with the establishment of many factories in the area. Currently, Massachusetts Bay is home to the largest city in the New England area, Boston. Some of America’s largest corporations such as Liberty Mutual, Boston Scientific, and Staples Incorporated are located in the city. The area is a crucial shipping location because it has good natural harbors. The vast coastal region is also used by individuals and commercial fishing companies in the big fisheries industry. Lastly, Massachusetts Bay has numerous beautiful scenes which attract millions of tourists annually.