Question

Source C: The following is about the British colonial policies in the 16" and 17 centuries.

In 1578, Queen Elizabeth I granted a patent to Humphrey Gilbert for discovery and overseas
exploration. During the carly 17h century, the British Empire began to take shape with the
English settlements established in North America and the Caribbean. Imports of raw cotton
from the American colonies gradually increased, and by 1790, it had reached 31,447,605 1bs.
In 1600, the English East India Company was established to assist the British Empire greatly in
the British trade with Asia.
2. Using source B and C, what could Britain gain from their overseas colonies?
I
3. Think back to the concept of Mercantilism, what did the colonies do for Britain's
overall wealth?

Answer 1

The British Empire gained access to resources and trade routes through their overseas colonies, which contributed to their overall wealth through Mercantilism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The British Empire gained various benefits from their overseas colonies. One of the key advantages was access to valuable resources and raw materials. For example, the American colonies provided raw cotton, which the British Empire imported in large quantities. Additionally, the British Empire established trade routes and networks, allowing them to expand their commerce and increase their wealth.

The concept of Mercantilism further enhanced Britain's overall wealth through its colonies. Mercantilism was an economic system where the colonies existed to serve the interests of the mother country. The colonies supplied raw materials and served as markets for British manufactured goods, enabling Britain to maintain a favorable trade balance and accumulate wealth.

Learn more about British colonial policies and their impact on the British Empire