What is mercontalism?

Answer 1

England and the colonies trade food for lumber and coal, they combine and take people from Africa to be slaves.

Answer 2

Mercantilism was an economic theory practiced in Europe from the 16th to 18th centuries that emphasized the importance of accumulating wealth, primarily through a favorable balance of trade. Governments imposed tariffs and restrictions to encourage exports and discourage imports, while colonies were seen as sources of raw materials and markets for finished goods. Mercantilism eventually gave way to free trade theories in the 19th century.