**British Colonialism and Capitalism**

British colonialism was indeed based on capitalism. Capitalism is an economic system that is characterized by private ownership of property and the means of production, and the pursuit of profit through market competition. The British Empire, at its height, was the largest empire in history and spanned across various continents, including North America, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. The primary motivation behind British colonialism was to exploit the resources and labor of these colonies for economic gain.

**Economic Exploitation**

One of the main objectives of British colonialism was to extract wealth and resources from the colonies for the benefit of Britain. The British Empire established colonial enterprises and industries that were designed to generate profits for the British ruling class. This included the establishment of plantations for cash crops, such as sugar, tobacco, tea, and cotton, which were then exported back to Britain for sale.

**Trade and Commerce**

British colonialism also involved the establishment of trade networks and the promotion of British goods in the colonies. The British Empire sought to control and monopolize trade routes, ensuring that their goods had preferential access to colonial markets. This was done through the establishment of trading companies, such as the East India Company, which had exclusive rights to trade with certain regions. These trading companies played a crucial role in expanding British influence and accumulating wealth through trade.

**Industrial Revolution and Colonialism**

The Industrial Revolution, which took place in Britain during the 18th and 19th centuries, played a significant role in shaping British colonialism. The Industrial Revolution brought about technological advancements and increased productivity, which fueled the demand for raw materials and new markets. The British Empire sought to secure access to these resources and markets through colonization, allowing them to maintain a dominant position in the global economy.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, British colonialism was based on capitalism. The primary motive behind British colonialism was economic exploitation, whereby the British Empire sought to extract wealth and resources from the colonies for the benefit of Britain. The establishment of colonial enterprises, trade networks, and the promotion of British goods in the colonies were all driven by the pursuit of profit and the principles of capitalism.