Growing Sense of Independence Through Salutary Neglect

486 Words2 Pages
Growing Sense of Independence through Salutary Neglect The irony of Britain’s policy of Salutary Neglect was that although the goal was to maintain control of an improved America, it resulted in an opposing effect. Instead, when the British turned their back on America, it became the catalyst for the independence of the colonies. The purpose for this policy was to allow the American colonies to grow stronger on their own. The British’ inattention resulted in colonies gaining a strong sense of independence demonstrated by their implementation of Legislative Assemblies, commerce, and religion during this period of Salutary Neglect. During this phase, the colonies began developing their own government. Self-government was the main aspect that caused America to separate itself from Britain. At the time they had more control over their own laws and policies and Britain had less. People felt less as British subjects and feelings of proprietorship kicked in. America was able to create its own governmental structure, and progress towards democracy was made. The Virginia House of Burgesses, created in 1609, was the first legislative assembly held by elected representatives in North America. It was created by the Virginia Company, to make the colonists conditions more agreeable. Other acts were also signed in other colonies that contributed to the new self-government, such as the Mayflower Compact and the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut. Although the British believed in Mercantilism, America began trading with other countries during this period. The Mercantilism laws were no longer enforced, allowing colonies to establish their own relationships with other countries. Profitable trade routes were developed, such as the Triangular Trade. The colonies were also able to create and manage their own farms. As the amount of product that they produced increased, America’s
Open Document