Mercantilism from the 16th to the 18th centuries played an important role in the relationship between Great Britain and the colonists of America. Mercantilism was one of the many factors that caused the separation between America and Great Britain. You first need to know how mercantilism benefited both sides to understand why the separation occurred. Mercantilism is an unfair practice. The main goal of mercantilism was to increase a nation's wealth by imposing government regulations regarding its commercial interests. Nations that practiced and enforced mercantilism among other countries believed that their strength could be maximized by limiting imports through tariffs and maximizing exports. As for the relationship between America and Great Britain, the English were fortunate to be the beneficiaries of mercantilism. Since they had control over the imports and exports of the American colonies, they could raise tariffs if it pleased them. As a result, they received all the financial benefits, including a boost in their economic system. In return, Britain raised tariffs...