What are some causes and effects of growth of mercantilism?

The growth of mercantilism in the 16th to 18th centuries was driven by the rise of nation-states, the desire for economic self-sufficiency, and competition for colonial territories. This economic doctrine emphasized the accumulation of wealth through trade surplus and the establishment of colonies to provide raw materials and markets for manufactured goods. As a result, mercantilism led to increased government intervention in economies, the expansion of trade networks, and intensified rivalries among European powers, often culminating in conflicts and colonial wars. Additionally, it fostered the development of infrastructure and shipping industries to support trade expansion.