Martin Luther 2

Economics in Colonial America During the 1500's to 1800's, the strength and stature of a country depended upon its political power, which can be traced to how self-sufficient it was. Striving to be self-sufficient was what nations sought after; dependency was not a characteristic of a powerful nation. Raw materials were the most required item to strengthen the central government, and deter interactions, such as trade with other nations. The first country to introduce mercantilism …

…was to stop the dominating Dutch from taking over the commercial vessel industry and build up Englands merchant marine. The Molasses and Sugar Acts were to make America pay for its so called troops and help British merchants. Britains mercantilistic ideas in these Acts show their disregard for the new colonies and the exploitation of their resources. After the War for Independence, America took some mercantilistic ideas to begin building their political power and economy.