Beginning of Essay
During the 1500's to 1800's, the strength and stature of a country depended upon its political power, which can be traced to how self-sufficient it was. Striving to be self-sufficient was what actions sought after; dependency was not a characteristic of a powerfu ....

Middle of Essay
.... of Spain to grow at the expense of the colonies. During the duration of this period, the 1500's through the 1700's, mercantilism had a major effect on the economies in the New World. England’s policies and acts effected English speaking colonies. These policies and acts were means of controlling the economy of the colonies in America and strengthen the central government of England. In 1651 the European parliament enacted the first Navigation Act to undercut the Dutch’s domination. England was hoping that this Act would exclude the Dutch from trade with the English and force its own merchant marine to grow. This act was the first attemp ....