What is the relationship between colonialism and mercantilism?

Colonialism and mercantilism are closely intertwined economic and political concepts. Mercantilism, dominant from the 16th to the 18th centuries, emphasized the accumulation of wealth through trade and the establishment of colonies, which were seen as sources of raw materials and markets for finished goods. Colonial powers sought to control these resources and trade routes to enhance their economic strength and maintain a favorable balance of trade. Thus, colonialism served as a practical application of mercantilist principles, facilitating the exploitation of resources and the expansion of national wealth.