History of North America

What was salutary negtlect?

Salutary neglect was a policy adopted by the British government towards its North American colonies in the 18th century. This policy was characterized by a deliberate indifference towards the colonies, giving them a large amount of autonomy and allowing them to develop their own institutions and economies. This hands-off approach was seen as beneficial both for the colonies and the British government. The colonies were given the freedom to develop their own industries, trade with the outside world, and govern themselves according to their own preferences while still enjoying the protection of British military power. This policy allowed the colonies to grow and prosper without feeling unduly constrained by British authority.