As such they were subject to the Navigation Acts, and no cargoes could be sent to that kingdom unless in British vessels.

The flourishing trade with the West Indies was made impossible for the same reason, a special Order in Council aiming at one fell stroke to "put an end to the building and increase of American vessels" and to finish the careers of three hundred West Indiamen already afloat.

In the islands themselves the results were appalling.

Fifteen thousand slaves died of starvation because the American traders were compelled to cease bringing them dried fish and corn during seasons in which their own crops were destroyed by hurricanes.
In 1776, one-third of the seagoing merchant marine of Great Britain had been bought or built to order in America because lumber was cheaper and wages were lower.

This lucrative business was killed by a law which denied Englishmen the privilege of purchasing ships built in American yards.