British policy-makers were individuals and groups involved in formulating and implementing policies regarding the British colonies in America during the 17th and 18th centuries. Their decisions shaped colonial governance, economic practices, and the relationship between Britain and its colonies, influencing the development of colonial society and culture.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
British policy-makers were primarily concerned with maximizing profit from the colonies while maintaining control over colonial governance.
The implementation of mercantilist policies led to tensions between Britain and the colonies as colonists sought more economic freedom.
Navigation Acts limited colonial trade to English ships and mandated certain goods be exported only to England, affecting colonial economies.
Salutary neglect fostered a sense of independence in the colonies, as policy-makers often overlooked violations of trade regulations, leading to increased self-governance.
The growing discontent with British policies eventually contributed to revolutionary sentiments among colonists, setting the stage for future conflicts.
Review Questions
How did British policy-makers' economic strategies influence colonial society in America?
British policy-makers' economic strategies, especially mercantilism and the Navigation Acts, had a significant impact on colonial society by regulating trade and promoting reliance on British markets. These strategies often led to dissatisfaction among colonists, who felt restricted by trade limitations. As a result, colonists began to develop a more independent economic identity, which fostered a sense of unity against British control.
Evaluate the effects of salutary neglect on the relationship between British policy-makers and the American colonies.
Salutary neglect allowed American colonies a degree of self-governance that led to the growth of their political institutions and identities. This leniency created an environment where colonists developed local laws and economic practices that diverged from British regulations. As British policy-makers began reasserting control after years of neglect, they faced resistance from colonies that had become accustomed to their autonomy, which ultimately strained relations and contributed to revolutionary sentiments.
Analyze how British policy-makers' decisions set the stage for revolutionary movements in America.
The decisions made by British policy-makers regarding trade regulations and governance created significant friction with American colonists who desired greater autonomy. The imposition of strict mercantilist policies through acts like the Navigation Acts intensified resentment among colonists, who felt their rights were being infringed upon. This discontent was compounded by years of salutary neglect, which fostered a unique colonial identity. When Britain attempted to tighten control in response to financial strains from wars, it catalyzed revolutionary movements as colonists rallied for independence, viewing British policies as oppressive rather than protective.
An economic theory that emphasizes the role of the state in managing the economy to increase national wealth, often through strict regulation of trade and accumulation of gold and silver.
A series of laws enacted by the British Parliament in the 17th century aimed at regulating colonial trade to benefit England's economy by ensuring that trade with the colonies was conducted on English ships.
An unofficial British policy during the early 18th century that allowed the American colonies considerable autonomy and self-governance, leading to the development of a unique colonial identity.