Final answer:
In colonial America, economic growth under mercantilism created social hierarchies, influenced the emergence of a wealthy elite class, and fostered self-sufficiency among colonists. The Atlantic economy, reliant on slave labor, led to racial divisions and contributed to the shaping of politics and society. The correct option is A,B,D.
Step-by-step explanation:
The economy in colonial America significantly shaped political and social structures. Economic growth and the principles of mercantilism led to increased standards of living, fostering a degree of self-sufficiency among colonists.
This economic growth also created social hierarchies and a class of economic elites, particularly in northern cities, where a merchant class influenced both politics and society. Moreover, the Atlantic economy fueled by trade, including the trade of enslaved Africans, established a racially divided society and exacerbated class divisions.
The economy also inspired the colonists to define their political rights more assertively, setting the stage for subsequent resistance to British control and the eventual road to revolution.
Thus, the answer to how the economy influenced political and social structures in colonial America is a combination of A) the emergence of a wealthy elite class, B) various systems of labor that structured social mobility, and D) reliance on slave labor creating a racially divided society and political system. The correct option is A,B,D.