Colonial Era

Definition

The colonial era refers to the period when European nations established colonies overseas starting from the 16th century until their independence movements in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Related terms

Mercantilism: An economic theory prevalent during the colonial era that emphasized exporting more than importing to increase a nation's wealth and power.

Enlightenment: An intellectual movement during the 17th and 18th centuries that promoted reason, individualism, and skepticism toward traditional authority.

Revolutionary War: The conflict fought between Great Britain and its thirteen North American colonies, resulting in the colonies gaining their independence as the United States of America.