How might mercantilism have encouraged colonial expansion abroad?

Mercantilism aimed to create a self-sufficient economy; the goal was eventually to import no resources and output as many as possible, as to maximize wealth. Thus, colonial expansion into untouched resources would bring nations closer to their idea of self-sufficiency within itself.

The transcontinental railroad provided a means of fast transportation. it cut a 6 month trip into 6 days, created jobs for many people and encouraged immigration. the homestead act played a huge role in western expansion; it allowed settlers to begin a fresh start, and gave them land in exchange for their residence for up to five years and a small fee.

What effect did the development of trade have on settlement patterns in medieval times