What was the theory and practice of merchantilism in Colonial America?

Question

WHat were the actual effects on the American Colonies and why did the colonies resnt it so much?

Answer 1

During the 1500’s and 1600’s, European countries practiced a system of international trade known as mercantilism. Under this system, the home country (mother country) would establish colonies and control colonial trade so that the mother country remained more powerful than the colony. At first, the colonies sent back much gold and silver. The mother country would use this gold and silver to purchase goods that the nation did not produce.

Eventually, the colonies were sending back raw materials of which the mother country had a shortage. The mother country becomes very dependent on these supplies and the income they brought in through sales and taxation.

Ultimately, most colonies grew tired of producing this revenue for a far-off, unsympathetic mother country and realized that they themselves had grown strong enough to gain their independence.