Which region used the forests to build ships and become a shipping power?*New EnglandMiddle ColoniesSouthern Colonies

The region that used the forests to build ships and became a shipping power is New England. This region, comprising states such as Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire, had vast forests that provided the necessary timber for shipbuilding. The abundance of wood, particularly oak and pine, was essential for constructing sturdy ships that were crucial for trade and fishing.

In addition to the raw materials, New England's geographic location along the Atlantic coast facilitated maritime activities, allowing these colonies to engage in transatlantic trade. Fishing, particularly for cod, became a central part of the economy, and the shipbuilding industry thrived as a result. The combination of natural resources, skilled craftsmanship, and access to trade routes helped New England emerge as a dominant shipping power in early American history.

Thus, the correct answer is New England.