Final answer:
American merchant ships probably traded with Spain, France, and Italy during the period of Mediterranean trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the Mediterranean trade during the period when America was engaged in trade with Europe, American merchant ships likely traded with three significant European countries: Spain, France, and Italy. Spain was an influential power with extensive territories and influence in the New World ever since Columbus, who sailed under the Spanish flag, reached the Americas. Furthermore, France had a strong presence due to its own colonial ambitions and established trading posts and colonies in the New World. Italy, particularly the city-states like Venice and Genoa, were historic centers of trade and commerce, with Venetian merchants being adept in Mediterranean trade since before the exploration of the New World. These countries were part of the broader Atlantic Trade Networks which linked Europe with not only the Americas but also the West Indies and the Far East. Commodities, raw materials, and manufactured goods flowed between these regions, creating new economic opportunities and expanding maritime trade.
The triangular trade was a system where goods and enslaved people were exchanged between the Americas, Europe, and West Africa. This trade benefitted the powers in Europe, who established companies like the Royal African Company to monopolize the trade of enslaved people which contributed greatly to their wealth. Additionally, European countries reaped benefits by shipping manufactured goods to the Americas and receiving valuable raw materials in return. The colonies, including those in the New World, were also part of this expansive trade network, which facilitated the growth of colonial merchant wealth.