I believe it was the dutch. I am not 100% sure though.
Answer:
Like who they team with. Who has there back.
Explanation:
Rivers, and flat plains.
Rivers proved pivotal for settlements to grow since it provides a means of water for growing crops, a means of produce which people can consume. Rivers also are a means of transportation and a geographic barrier against attack, albeit slight.
Flat plains also proved viable for settlements because of how easy they were to traverse, coupled with it being easier to farm on said land.
The year 1776 is in the 18th century. It lasted from January 1, 1701 to December 31, 1800.