Mercantilism

Question 1

When was the 1st Navigation Act passed and what did it involve?

Answer 1

• 1st Navigation Act was passed in 1651 and dictated that all colonial goods need to be transported on English ships with majority English crews (restricting trade with foreign nations)

Question 2

How did the legislation of the Navigation Acts develop?

Answer 2

• In 1660, the Navigation Acts were broadened, and the concept of “enumerated goods” were introduced - meaning that key colonial products such as sugar, tobacco cotton etc. could ONLY be exported to England/other English colonies
• In 1696 - there was the third navigation act (enforcement act) - essentially strengthened the enforcement of the act - customs officials given increased powers to search and seize ships but salutary neglect still largely continued

Question 3

What did the Staple Act establish and when was it passed?

Answer 3

• 1663 - required that all goods imported into the colonies pass through England first - greatly advantaged British merchants, as the time and inconvenience for any other sellers meant that their prices could not compete

Question 4

What was the Wool Act?

Answer 4

• 1699
• Banned the export of manufactured woollen goods from the colonies