Describe the interdependence of Great Britain and the American colonies giving specific examples?

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http://www.britannia.com/history/naremphist2.html

http://books.google.com/books?id=7ZJYW6vEAVsC&pg=PA350&lpg=PA350&dq=interdependence+colonies+england&source=web&ots=wxGIxEs6uq&sig=w_kmWydYfk7HfHFQ9bORvT9z22Y

http://books.google.com/books?id=e1jOWrxOAEAC&pg=PA66&lpg=PA66&dq=interdependence+colonies+england&source=web&ots=f5t17wyT78&sig=vyroFimFcWnoImIZf7wEaEBWgfY

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The interdependence between Great Britain and the American colonies during the 18th century can be explained through several examples. To understand this interdependence, we need to look at both economic and political aspects.

Economically, the American colonies relied on Great Britain for trade and access to markets. The colonies exported raw materials such as tobacco, indigo, and timber to Britain, which then processed these materials and sold the finished products back to the colonies. This system of mercantilism favored the British economy, as it ensured a steady supply of cheap raw materials for their industries.

One specific example of economic interdependence is the Triangular Trade. British merchants sent manufactured goods to Africa, where they were exchanged for enslaved Africans. These enslaved individuals were then transported to the American colonies and sold into slavery. The profits made from slave labor were used to purchase raw materials from the colonies, which were then sent back to Britain for further processing and trade.

Politically, the American colonies were governed by the British Crown. British authority was exercised through royal governors, who were appointed by the King and operated under the jurisdiction of the British Parliament. The colonies relied on Britain for protection, especially during conflicts with Native American tribes and rival European powers.

Another example of political interdependence can be seen in the passage of acts and legislation. For instance, the Sugar Act and the Stamp Act were imposed by the British Parliament to raise revenue from the colonies. These acts imposed taxes on imported goods and printed materials. While these acts were met with resistance in the colonies, they also highlighted the close political ties between Great Britain and the American colonies.

Overall, the interdependence between Great Britain and the American colonies was characterized by economic reliance on British markets and political governance by the British Crown. While this interdependence created strong ties, it also sowed the seeds of discontent that ultimately led to the American Revolution as tensions grew over issues such as taxation and representation.