How did the nature of work shape early colonial society in North America? Does it still shape society today?

When you are referring to North America are you talking about America specifically? If so I'll discuss America's geography and climate. Jamestown was one of the first settlements, established around 1607 (I honestly don't remember anything too specific). The conditions were especially horrid, with its difficult soil and mucky weather. Its conditions were too poor for agricultural use, causing the death of most of the colonists within that settlement. Southern lands had somewhat better conditions, however, the soil was still dry and was only good for growing crops such as tobacco and cotton (which would later lead to the development of slaver and Cotton King much later on). Quite noticeably different, the middle colonies had rich and bountiful soil. This was the perfect condition for growing a wide range of crops and led to the dependence upon agriculture. This would continue throughout history, leading to the North's (Jamestown remember?) development of industrial use and the industrial revolution. In my little notes I also said that the South would become notable for its "King Cotton" and heavy ties to slavery. As for today, it's hard to tell. North America is often tied together with its lack of environmental care. Most of the nature which existed was torn down to become today's cities and buildings. You could say the lack of environmental care in the past has led to the strong desire to become more eco-friendly and find alternative resources and fuel.