Salutary neglect

Definition

Salutary neglect refers to the British policy of avoiding strict enforcement of parliamentary laws in the American colonies during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. This approach allowed the colonies to develop their own economies and governance without heavy interference from Britain, fostering a sense of independence that later contributed to revolutionary sentiments. The relaxed enforcement led to the growth of colonial self-governance, as well as economic practices that laid the groundwork for the eventual push for independence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Salutary neglect was not an official policy but rather an informal practice that evolved due to Britain's focus on its European conflicts and colonial administration.
2. This period allowed American colonists to create their own local governments, leading to the development of political institutions independent from Britain.
3. The economic autonomy experienced during salutary neglect encouraged smuggling and trade with other nations, which later became a point of contention with Britain.
4. As British authorities began to reassert control post-1763, many colonists were resistant due to their accustomed self-governance fostered during the salutary neglect period.
5. The end of salutary neglect is often viewed as a significant factor contributing to the rising tensions that eventually led to the American Revolution.

Review Questions

• How did salutary neglect impact the development of political institutions in the American colonies?
  • Salutary neglect significantly influenced the development of political institutions in the American colonies by allowing them to establish their own local governance structures without direct oversight from Britain. As a result, colonial assemblies gained power and autonomy, enabling them to create laws and manage their finances independently. This growing sense of self-governance fostered a belief in democratic principles and set the stage for future demands for independence.
• Evaluate the relationship between salutary neglect and economic practices in the American colonies during this period.
  • The relationship between salutary neglect and economic practices in the American colonies was marked by increased autonomy in trade and commerce. With lax enforcement of trade laws like the Navigation Acts, colonists engaged in smuggling and established trade routes with other countries, bypassing British regulations. This economic freedom allowed for a diverse colonial economy to flourish, which contributed to a distinct American identity separate from Britain, ultimately leading to tensions when Britain attempted to impose stricter controls.
• Analyze how the shift away from salutary neglect after 1763 contributed to revolutionary sentiments among American colonists.
  • The shift away from salutary neglect after 1763 marked a critical turning point for American colonists who had grown accustomed to significant autonomy. As Britain began enforcing stricter regulations and taxes, such as the Stamp Act and Townshend Acts, many colonists viewed these actions as infringements on their rights and liberties. The sudden change from self-governance to direct control ignited feelings of resentment and defiance among colonists, fueling revolutionary sentiments and ultimately leading to organized resistance against British rule.

Related terms

Navigation Acts:

A series of laws passed by the British Parliament that aimed to regulate colonial trade and ensure it benefited Britain, often ignored due to salutary neglect.

Mercantilism: An economic theory prevalent in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized the importance of stockpiling wealth and maintaining a favorable balance of trade, influencing British colonial policies.

Colonial Assemblies: Legislative bodies established in various colonies that exercised significant control over local governance and finances, often unchecked during periods of salutary neglect.