Who assumed charge of colonial policy?

The British government, particularly through the Board of Trade and later the Colonial Office, assumed charge of colonial policy in the 18th century. This shift was marked by the increasing centralization of decision-making regarding the administration, trade, and governance of the colonies. Key figures in shaping these policies included officials like Lord Halifax and later, Colonial Secretaries, who implemented strategies to manage colonial affairs and respond to colonial needs. This centralization laid the groundwork for more direct control over colonial matters, especially leading up to events like the American Revolution.