The important economic doctrine that guided British colonial rule in the Americas was mercantilism. This economic theory held that a nation’s strength was directly tied to its wealth, particularly in terms of gold and silver. Under mercantilism, colonies were viewed primarily as sources of raw materials and markets for manufactured goods. Britain imposed strict trade regulations on its colonies, encouraging them to trade only with the mother country to maximize profits and accumulate wealth. This policy fostered tensions between the colonies and Britain, contributing to the American Revolution as colonists sought greater economic independence.