Heimler's History Lecture: Unit 2 - AP US History Curriculum (1607-1754)

Topic: Transatlantic Trade - Causes and Effects

Globalization of Trade

• Time Period: Late 17th to early 18th centuries
• Global Economy: Trade became global, particularly the development of a transatlantic economy

Triangular Trade

• Definition: Named for the triangular route taken by merchant ships
  • New England: Started with carrying rum to West Africa
  • West Africa: Traded rum for enslaved laborers
  • Middle Passage: Brutal conditions endured by enslaved people during the journey
  • British West Indies: Enslaved people were traded for sugarcane
  • Back to New England: Sugarcane was traded for rum, restarting the cycle
• Middle Passage Image: Originally a reform image post-1788 Slave Trade Act limiting the number of enslaved people on ships

Economic Principles

• Mercantilism: Dominant economic system in Europe
  • Fixed Wealth: Measured in gold and silver, leading to a belief in a finite amount of wealth
  • Favorable Balance of Trade: More exports than imports to increase national wealth
  • Colonization: Establishment of colonies for raw materials and markets for goods
• Navigation Acts (British legislation)
  • Trade required to be conducted in English ships
  • Certain trade items had to pass through British ports and be taxed

Effects of Transatlantic Trade

• Wealth Generation: Primarily benefited societal elites (merchants, investors, plantation owners)
• Urban Transformation: Seaports in America became thriving urban centers
• Consumer Revolution:
  • Increased purchasing of goods by affluent families
  • Shift in societal status: From family pedigree to financial success and lifestyle

Conclusion

• Impact: The transatlantic trade created a global trade network based on mercantilism, altering European, African, and American societies.
• Further Learning: Encouragement to use review packets for academic support.
• Engagement: An invitation to subscribe for more educational content.