During the colonial era, why did many people in New England take part in the dangerous whaling industry? Whaling was the sole economic option available in New England and it was the only way to make money. Economic options were limited in New England due to poor agricultural conditions, and whale oil was profitable. Indentured servants who came to New England could only find jobs working on whaling boats. Enslaved laborers were put to work on whaling boats against their will and forced to suffer brutal conditions.
