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Explain what was important about the slave trade for Restoration England. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
Explain what was important about the slave trade for Restoration England.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain what was important about the slave trade for Restoration England. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Complex explanation of consequences
Answer
The slave trade was crucial for Restoration England mainly due to its economic impact. The wealth generated from the slave trade funded elaborate houses and gardens in England, reflecting the affluent lifestyle of plantation owners.
The triangular trade involved the export of goods like sugar and tobacco from the colonies to England, and in return, England supplied the colonies with manufactured goods. This trade greatly stimulated economic growth in England, especially in port cities like London, where a significant portion of sugar was imported.
Moreover, by the 1680s, the Royal African Company was transporting thousands of enslaved individuals annually, which positioned the company as a key player in the lucrative Caribbean market.
The reliance on slave labor also influenced British governmental policies. The maintenance of mercantilism, which stressed the importance of maximizing exports and minimizing imports, drove the need for colonies that could replenish British markets with raw materials like sugar and cotton.
Step 2
Developed explanation of consequences
Answer
The slave trade was also significant because it provided cheap labor, which in turn increased the profitability of plantations. The demand for products such as sugar and tobacco grew, leading to further investment in slave labor.
Additionally, the cultural impact of the slave trade influenced fashion and lifestyle in Restoration England, as wealthy individuals adopted trends linked to colonial goods, including coffee and sugar consumption. Therefore, the slave trade was integral not only for the economy but also for shaping social aspects of Restoration society.