What was the impact of independence on the economy and society of North America?

Question

social and economic issues, issues of continuity and change, adjustment and new perspectives about economic development and impact of different social groups- Native Americans and African Americans

Answer 1

The new nation was now free to trade with any other nation of its choosing. It no longer had to obey the laws passed by Parliament and the mercantile system. However, the new nation also lost the protection on the high seas of the British Navy. The American merchant marine soon developed into a profitable commercial venture and many foreign sailors would even "jump ship" and join the American vessels. The west was open to development but the new nation had to provide its own protection for its citizens. The Northwest Ordinance and similar pieces of legislation would help the nation add states on an equal footing with the original 13. America was free to enact protective tariffs and encourage its own industry.