How well was the system of mercantilism?

Mercantilism, which dominated European economic thought from the 16th to the 18th century, aimed to strengthen national economies by maximizing exports and accumulating precious metals. While it successfully fostered colonial expansion and increased state power, it often led to trade imbalances, monopolistic practices, and conflicts between nations. The system's focus on protectionism and regulation ultimately stifled innovation and competition, paving the way for the emergence of capitalism and free trade theories in the following centuries. Thus, while mercantilism achieved some short-term benefits, its long-term sustainability was limited.