Navigation Act of 1660

The Navigation Act of 1660 was a law enacted by England to regulate trade with its colonies. It required that goods imported to England or its colonies be shipped in English ships or ships from the producing country. The goal was to ensure that England benefited economically from colonial trade by promoting its own shipbuilding and commerce, and to weaken rival nations like the Dutch and Dutch commerce. This act was part of broader mercantilist policies designed to increase national wealth and control over overseas trade, laying groundwork for future trade regulations between England and its colonies.