Final answer:
The town of Bristol made its fortune through trade, manufacturing, and industrialization, including the slave trade, the cultivation of sugar, and the insurance industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The town of Bristol made its fortune through various means, including trade, manufacturing, and industrialization.
During the 18th century, Great Britain dominated the slave trade and cultivated sugar, accumulating great wealth. The East India Company also played a role in capital accumulation through its trade with South Asia. The company's success as a joint-stock company inspired others to follow the same model.
Additionally, Bristol's strategic location near the coast and Connecticut River allowed it to become a manufacturing center and port during the colonial period. The town's insurance industry also contributed to its economic prosperity.