What was the main economic system employed by the colonies before independence?

The main economic system employed by the colonies before independence was mercantilism, which was characterized by the belief that the strength of a nation depended on its wealth, primarily measured in gold and silver. In this system, the colonies were seen as sources of raw materials and markets for manufactured goods produced by the mother country, in this case, Great Britain.

Under mercantilism, the colonies were expected to supply raw materials that the British economy needed, which would then be turned into finished products. This arrangement ensured that wealth flowed back to Britain while limiting the economic freedom of the colonies, as they were often restricted in their trade and manufacturing capabilities to benefit the British economy.

This historical context sheds light on the tensions that contributed to the desire for independence, as colonists chafed under these restrictions and sought greater economic autonomy.