Colonial merchants were the importers and wholesalers during the colonial time period. They were indispensable because their imports kept the community warm and fed through the harsh winters of the northeast. Some commodities colonial merchants sold were tobacco, flour, maize, timber, fur or skins, indigo and livestock. In this historical view, discover the fascinating way colonial merchants bought and sold their goods. This volume chronicles the formative years of the United States through the activities and occupations of its most valued community members. It explores the everyday life, responsibilities, social life as a colonial merchant and the affect of the profession on colonial America. Hands-on activities and recipes, sidebars detailing the history and evolution of the profession and key social studies words defend in the glossary.