Which colonial policy allowed self-government by largely lax enforcement during the early 18th century?

Which colonial policy allowed self-government by largely lax enforcement during the early 18th century?

• A. Salutary Neglect
• B. Mercantilism
• C. Stamp Act
• D. Quartering Act

Answer: (A)

Salutary neglect is the idea here: Britain relaxed enforcement of trade laws and didn’t clamp down rigidly on colonial governance, so the colonies could manage their own affairs with minimal central interference. Because enforcing the Navigation Acts and other regulations was costly, colonial assemblies gained real experience running their own governments and making local policy. This lenient approach allowed self-government to develop in the colonies during the early 18th century, even as economic ties remained with Britain. In contrast, mercantilism emphasizes strict control of trade for the mother country, and the Stamp Act and Quartering Act were measures that increased enforcement and central authority, not reduced it.

Salutary neglect is the idea here: Britain relaxed enforcement of trade laws and didn’t clamp down rigidly on colonial governance, so the colonies could manage their own affairs with minimal central interference. Because enforcing the Navigation Acts and other regulations was costly, colonial assemblies gained real experience running their own governments and making local policy. This lenient approach allowed self-government to develop in the colonies during the early 18th century, even as economic ties remained with Britain. In contrast, mercantilism emphasizes strict control of trade for the mother country, and the Stamp Act and Quartering Act were measures that increased enforcement and central authority, not reduced it.