Salutary negligence was the British policy for governing American colonies from 1607 to 1763, allowing lax law enforcement to encourage colonial prosperity. Colonists were largely self-employed and had personal and religious freedoms. Attempts to reassert British authority led to resentment and the American Revolution.
From 1607 to 1763, the unwritten British policy for governing the American colonies was described as salutary negligence. In this policy, parliamentary law enforcement was deliberately lax, with the stated aim of encouraging colonial prosperity. The settlers were, for the most part, left to mind their own business. The fact that the practice lasted for generations, along with the attempt to end this policy and reassert British authority in the 18th century, are identified as important factors leading to the American Revolution.
Under the laws of the time, trade between American colonists and other nations was severely restricted, and colonists had to trade only with England, Scotland, and Ireland. Healthy negligence allowed Britain to turn a blind eye to illegal trade with other countries, which was difficult and costly to enforce. As Sir Robert Walpole, regarded by most as Britain’s first prime minister, put it, “If no restrictions were placed on the colonies, they would thrive.” Walpole is also credited with advising authorities to “let sleeping dogs lie”.
During this period, the settlers were largely self-employed. Beginning with the House of Burgesses in Virginia, each of the 13 colonies developed its own legislature, and by the 18th century they functioned as independent, self-governing governments.
Americans enjoyed personal and religious freedoms not shared by other British subjects. Maryland passed the Religion Act, or Maryland Toleration Act, in 1649 to protect religious freedoms and promote tolerance. Similar legislation in Pennsylvania attracted settlers from the Quaker community.
Under healthy neglect, the colonists felt no influence from British government and culture. These developments have led to a growing sense of American identity, distinct from Great Britain. People in the colonies had become accustomed to the idea of self-government and began to see themselves as British subjects in name only.
Once these freedoms were granted, they proved difficult to take back. As the expenses of the Seven Years’ War, also known as the French and Indian War, began to take their toll, Britain reasserted its control over the colonies. Supplies were seized and men were drafted into the war effort. These policies relaxed in response to colonial resistance, but Americans continued to resent the attempt.
Further steps followed which marked the end of the policy of abandonment, including the dissolution of the House of Burgesses in 1769. Stricter enforcement of British law and an increase in taxes further upset the colonists. These actions are held directly responsible for the American Revolutionary War.
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