Commerce and Trade

As world trade increased, the colonies and the countries in Europe relied on Africa as a major source of goods, like ivory, and as a source of labor through the import of slaves. This triangular trade linked Africa, the Americas, and Europe through markets and resources. As a result of the growth in trade, the Commercial Revolution transformed Europe as nations competed for overseas markets, colonies, and resources.

Essential Questions

• How did Africa become involved in foreign trade?
• What were the roles of the Commercial Revolution and mercantilism in the growth of European nations?