Question

According to mercantilist theory, what is the main purpose of colonies?

a) To promote cultural exchange
b) To provide a source of cheap labor
c) To foster international cooperation
d) To enrich the mother country through a favorable balance of trade

Answer 1

The main purpose of colonies, according to mercantilist theory, was to enrich the mother country through a favorable balance of trade.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to mercantilist theory, the main purpose of colonies was to enrich the mother country through a favorable balance of trade. European nations established colonies to secure a steady supply of raw materials for domestic consumption and to create a market for goods produced in the home country. These colonies were usually required to trade exclusively with the mother country, ensuring economic benefits for the colonizing nation.