F) Mercantilism

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:02:14 +0000

# F) Mercantilism – The Economic Doctrine That Shaped Global Trade Introduction
Mercantilism, a foundational economic philosophy dominant from the 16th to the 18th centuries, played a pivotal role in shaping national economies, colonial expansion, and global trade patterns. Often misunderstood as merely an archaic system of protectionism, mercantilism was a comprehensive framework designed to enrich nations through strategic control of commerce. In this article, we explore what mercantilism is, its core principles, historical impact, and its lasting legacy in modern economic thought. --- ## What Is Mercantilism?