Mercantilism increased the likelihood of conflicts between European powers through exploitation and economic rivalry.
What is mercantilism?
Mercantilism is a policy that was prevalent primarily from the 16th to 18th centuries. This policy emphasized the accumulation of wealth through trade and colonization. With many territories being under the political control of other countries, the mother country (the country in control) often exploited the conquered territories in a way that created one-sided trades with an intention of maximized exports and minimized imports. With different countries being in control and competing against one another, places tended to engage in conflicts to gain monopolies or secure advantages economically.
In summary, mercantilism was the driving force of many conflicts between European conflicts. The consistent competition between neighboring countries led to disputes and wars in this era while each strived to achieve a state of economic supremacy.