Q13. The American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism. Substantiate.
Model Answer:
Introduction
The American Revolution (1775-1783) was not merely a struggle for independence but also an economic revolt against British mercantilist policies that stifled colonial growth and autonomy.
Body
Role of Economics Factors in the American Revolution
- Mercantilist Policies: Britain’s mercantilism restricted colonial trade, forcing American colonies to trade primarily with the mother country, and limiting economic diversification and growth opportunities.
- Taxation Without Representation: The imposition of taxes, like the Stamp Act and Townshend Acts, highlighted colonial frustrations, as they had no direct representation in Parliament to voice their concerns.
- Economic Restrictions: British laws, such as the Navigation Acts, mandated colonial dependence on British goods and shipping, impeding local industries and encouraging resentment among colonists.
- Smuggling and Resistance: Colonists increasingly resorted to smuggling to bypass trade restrictions, fostering a culture of resistance against British economic control and igniting revolutionary sentiments.
- Desire for Economic Freedom: American revolutionaries sought economic independence to establish a free-market system, allowing them to trade with multiple nations, and fostering competition and prosperity.
Conclusion
The American Revolution was fundamentally driven by economic motives against mercantilism, as colonists yearned for self-determination, economic freedom, and the ability to control their own economic destinies.
Instant Mains Evaluation with SuperKalam
✅ Now try writing this answer in your own
words and evaluate it instantly
using SuperKalam
.png)
