How did mercantilism effect the triangular (transatlantic) slave trade?
To enforce mercantilism England passed the NAVIGATION ACTS, (Trade Acts) beginning in 1651. These acts were designed to control trade with its colonies. These laws forced the colonies to trade only with England. Under these laws the colonies were not allowed to make any products they could buy from England. In other words, if you needed a barrel to pack your goods, a cooper in your town could not make or sell you that barrel. you had to buy the barrel from England. Also, all goods had to be shipped on English ships or ships built in the colonies. In other words no Dutch, French, or Spanish ships could sell or trade their goods to the colonies. The colonies were not allowed to sell raw materials or products to them. England passed other Trade Acts that continued to control colonial trade. The colonists became increasingly angry as each new Act was passed and began to find ways around these restrictions. Smuggling and piracy became big business. During the French and Indian War, England
