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Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

1. Understand the British Mercantilist System
   To begin answering the question, review the concept of mercantilism, which was an economic theory that dominated European thought from the 16th to the 18th century. Mercantilism focused on accumulating wealth, especially gold and silver, through a favorable balance of trade. The idea was that colonies existed to benefit the mother country by providing raw materials and serving as markets for finished goods.
2. Analyze the Role of the Colonies
   The colonies played a crucial role in supporting the British mercantilist system. They provided raw materials like tobacco, sugar, cotton, and timber that were not readily available in Britain. These materials were then shipped back to Britain, where they were processed into finished goods. The colonies were also expected to be reliable markets for these goods. This created a system of economic dependence, where the colonies existed primarily to serve British economic interests.
3. Support the Role with Historical Examples
   You can cite specific examples to illustrate this role. For instance, the Navigation Acts were a series of laws that restricted colonial trade to benefit Britain. These laws required that certain goods from the colonies be shipped only to Britain or other British colonies. By controlling trade in this way, Britain ensured that it maintained control over the flow of raw materials and goods, which reinforced the economic foundation of the mercantilist system.
4. Discuss the Impact on Colonial Development
   Finally, explore how this system shaped the development of the colonies. While the colonies benefited from British protection and access to British markets, they were also limited in their economic growth. The need to supply raw materials and consume finished goods from Britain stunted the development of a diversified economy in the colonies. Over time, this led to tensions, as the colonies began to resist the limitations imposed by mercantilist policies, setting the stage for conflicts like the American Revolution.

By following this structure, you will present a comprehensive and well-rounded answer to the question, demonstrating both an understanding of the mercantilist system and its implications for the colonies.