Final answer:
Britain's colonial policies contributed to the growth of self-government in the colonies through salutary neglect, the establishment of colonial assemblies, and colonial protests. The major steps that led to growing feelings of colonial unity included the Albany Plan of Union, the Stamp Act Congress, and the Committees of Correspondence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Britain’s colonial policies contributed to the growth of self-government in the colonies in several ways:
- Salutary neglect: Due to distance and other priorities, Britain relaxed its control over the colonies, allowing them to develop their own self-governing institutions and systems.
- Colonial assemblies: The British government established colonial assemblies, which gave colonists the opportunity to participate in local governance and make decisions that affected their communities.
- Colonial protests: British policies, such as the Stamp Act and the Sugar Act, sparked protests and opposition from the colonists. These protests helped foster a sense of unity among the colonies and a desire for self-government.
The major steps that led to growing feelings of colonial unity included:
- The Albany Plan of Union: Proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1754, it aimed to unite the colonies for defense and cooperation. Although it was not implemented, it planted the seed of colonial unity.
- The Stamp Act Congress: In 1765, representatives from nine colonies met to protest the Stamp Act and assert their rights as British subjects. The Congress demonstrated their ability to work together and stand against oppressive policies.
- The Committees of Correspondence: Formed in the 1770s, these committees allowed colonies to communicate and coordinate their resistance against British policies. They played a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among the colonies.