2.4 Transatlantic Trade

Triangular Trade & Atlantic Networks

Colonies were bound to Europe and Africa through the transatlantic trade (sometimes called triangular trade). Ships carried raw materials (sugar, tobacco, furs) to Europe, manufactured goods to Africa, and enslaved people to the Americas. This created a complex Atlantic World economy connecting three continents and enriching European empires.

Mercantilism & Navigation Acts

England practiced mercantilism, believing colonies existed to benefit the mother country economically. The Navigation Acts (starting 1651) required colonial goods to be shipped on English ships and certain goods (like tobacco) sold only to England, restricting colonial trade with other nations to maximize English wealth and control.

The Middle Passage & Salutary Neglect

The Middle Passage was the brutal forced voyage of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic, marked by horrific conditions and high mortality; it fueled plantation economies. Despite mercantilist laws, weak enforcement led to salutary neglect and widespread smuggling, allowing colonists significant economic autonomy and fostering self-government habits.

Key terms

Mercantilism

Economic theory that colonies exist to enrich the mother country through controlled trade and raw materials.

Navigation Acts

Laws requiring colonial goods to be shipped on English ships and certain goods sold only to England.

Middle Passage

The brutal forced sea voyage of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic to the Americas.

Salutary Neglect

Britain's loose enforcement of trade laws, allowing colonists greater economic and political autonomy.

Triangular Trade

Atlantic trade network moving raw materials, manufactured goods, and enslaved people among Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Try an AP-style question

The Navigation Acts required colonists to…

1. stop exporting tobacco
2. trade freely with all nations
3. ship goods through English ports
4. build only English ships