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The exploration and colonization of the Americas marked a transformative period in history, sparking a multitude of changes in the societal, economic, and religious landscape. During this era, Britain adopted a policy of salutary neglect, which unintentionally influenced the development of American society in profound ways. This essay explores the impact of salutary neglect on legislative assemblies, commerce, and religion, highlighting how the absence of strict governance from England allowed North America to evolve into a distinct entity.
One of the most significant outcomes of salutary neglect was the emergence of self-governance in the American colonies.
The vast distance between England and the colonies made direct governance impractical, necessitating the development of local legislative assemblies. A prime example of this can be observed in the Virginia colony with the establishment of the House of Burgesses.
The House of Burgesses, comprised of the Royal Governor and a council of influential plantation owners, served as a pioneering model for colonial self-government.
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Through this assembly, the Virginia colony was able to legislate and create laws independently, providing a functional alternative to the distant English government. The House of Burgesses demonstrated the adaptability of American society in crafting its own governance structures, paving the way for future colonial legislatures.
The fertile lands of the New World proved to be a catalyst for economic development, particularly in the realm of agriculture. Salutary neglect inadvertently fostered an environment where American farmers were free to experiment with various crops, leading to the cultivation of cash crops like tobacco and sugar cane.
This agricultural abundance, however, came with its own set of challenges.
Although the English government mandated a ratio of one acre of corn for every acre of tobacco, the sheer distance between England and the colonies rendered enforcement impossible. Consequently, the overproduction of tobacco led to a devaluation of the crop, impacting its profitability. In the West Indies, the cultivation of sugar cane emerged as a lucrative endeavor, contributing to the economic prosperity of the colonies. Salutary neglect, by allowing agricultural experimentation, inadvertently shaped the economic trajectory of the American colonies.
Religious freedom experienced a significant boost under the policy of salutary neglect. While religious persecution persisted, it was comparatively milder in the colonies, offering refuge to those seeking escape from intolerance. The Church of England lacked effective power in the colonies, enabling diverse religious practices to flourish.
Rhode Island stands out as a prime example of religious tolerance during this period. The colony implemented exceptionally liberal policies, providing a haven for individuals with varying religious beliefs, including atheists and Jews. Salutary neglect indirectly facilitated the proliferation of religious pluralism, allowing diverse communities to coexist without fear of persecution.
The absence of direct oversight from England prompted the Mayflower pilgrims to devise the Mayflower Compact. Landing far from their intended destination, the settlers recognized the need for a temporary governing structure until a formal government could be established. This compact represented a pioneering effort at self-regulation, embodying the spirit of autonomy and adaptability that characterized the early American colonies.
In conclusion, the policy of salutary neglect exerted a profound and lasting influence on the development of American society before 1750. From the emergence of self-governance in legislative assemblies to the economic shifts brought about by agricultural experimentation and the fostering of religious pluralism, salutary neglect inadvertently laid the groundwork for a unique American identity. The Mayflower Compact exemplifies the resourcefulness of early colonists in establishing governance in the absence of external authority. As we reflect on this period, it becomes evident that salutary neglect, despite its name, played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the American colonies.
Salutary Neglect and the Development of American Society. (2016, Mar 18). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/for-the-period-before-1750-analyze-the-ways-in-which-britains-policy-of-salutary-neglect-influenced-the-devlopment-of-american-society-essay
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