"For the increase of shipping and encouragement of the navigation of this nation... no goods or commodities whatsoever shall be imported into or exported out of any lands, islands, plantations or territories to his Majesty belonging... in Asia, Africa, or America, in any other ship or ships... but in such ships as do truly and without fraud belong only to the people of England..."
— English Navigation Act of 1660
The regulations described in the excerpt most directly reflect which of the following economic policies?
- AFree-market capitalism, which promoted open competition and the elimination of state-imposed trade barriers
- BThe Columbian Exchange, which focused on the biological transfer of crops, animals, and diseases between hemispheres
- Mercantilism, which sought to enrich the mother country by controlling colonial trade and accumulating wealthAnswer
- DLaissez-faire deregulation, which encouraged colonies to establish independent trade networks with other European powers
Answer
The correct answer is mercantilism, which sought to enrich the mother country by controlling colonial trade and accumulating wealth.
The correct option is mercantilism because the Navigation Acts were classic examples of mercantilist laws designed to ensure that the home country monopolized colonial trade, thus accumulating wealth and excluding foreign competitors.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Mercantilism and state control of trade in maritime empires
Estimated Time:45s