The economic system that dominated relations between Europe and the Americas in the seventeenth century was mercantilism, which emphasized the importance of maximizing exports and accumulating wealth, particularly in the form of gold and silver. This system significantly influenced British colonization in the Americas in several ways.
One correct statement regarding the impact of mercantilism on British colonization would be:
"Mercantilism drove British colonization efforts to establish colonies in the Americas that could supply raw materials to the mother country, while also providing a market for British manufactured goods, thereby enhancing Britain's economic power and competitiveness."
This statement highlights how mercantilism motivated the establishment of colonies as a means to support the economic interests of Britain through resource extraction and market expansion.