Navigation Act of 1651

The Navigation Act of 1651 was a law passed by England to control trade and boost its maritime economy. It required that goods shipped from England or its colonies be transported in English ships and largely traded with England or its colonies. This aimed to restrict foreign ships from participating in trade, ensuring England benefited economically. The act supported English shipbuilders and merchants while helping to grow its global trade dominance. It also contributed to tensions with other countries, especially the Dutch, who relied on freer trade routes, leading to conflicts like the Anglo-Dutch Wars.