What role did mercantilism play in the exploration of the americas by europeans?

Question: What role did mercantilism play in the exploration of the americas by europeans!?
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

Mercantilism fueled the expansion of colonies and the harvesting of thier natural resources!. Mercantilism states that there is only so much wealth in the world, a fixed amount, as opposed to todays idea that wealth can grow over time!. The European nations wanted to get as much of the pie as possible!. They sent out colonies to get the natural resources which were to be taxed and sent back to the homeland for processing and sale!. Www@QuestionHome@Com