Exports:
* Wool: England was known for its high-quality wool, which was exported across Europe.
* Cloth: English weavers produced fine cloth from the wool, which was a major export commodity.
* Tin: England had rich tin deposits, and it was a significant export.
* Fish: Fishing was a vital industry, and cod, herring, and other fish were exported, particularly to Catholic countries who abstained from meat on Fridays.
* Leather: English leather goods were in high demand, and leather was also exported to other countries for various uses.
* Wheat: England was a major grain producer and exported wheat, especially in times of good harvest.
* Horses: England was known for its strong horses, and these were exported to Europe.
* Manufactured Goods: Other manufactured goods like tools, furniture, and metalware were also exported.
Imports:
* Wine: England imported large amounts of wine from France, Spain, and Portugal.
* Spices: Spices like pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves were imported from Asia and the Americas.
* Fruit: Citrus fruits, olives, and other fruits were imported from Southern Europe.
* Timber: England imported timber from Scandinavia and the Baltic region.
* Luxury Goods: Silk, velvet, jewels, and other luxury goods were imported from countries like Italy and the Ottoman Empire.
* Slaves: Sadly, England was involved in the slave trade, with slaves being imported from Africa.
* Raw Materials: England imported raw materials like cotton, indigo, and sugar from the Americas.
Important Notes:
* Mercantilism: During the Elizabethan era, England embraced the economic theory of Mercantilism, which emphasized exporting more than importing to build national wealth. This led to the government actively encouraging trade and protecting English merchants.
* Expansion: The Elizabethan era saw a significant increase in English trade, thanks to the exploration of new territories and the establishment of trading posts around the world.
* The East India Company: The founding of the East India Company in 1600 marked a turning point in English trade. This company was granted a monopoly to trade with India and the East Indies, leading to the import of vast quantities of spices and other goods.
This is just a brief overview of the products traded in Elizabethan times. There were countless other items exchanged, reflecting the vibrant and complex trade network that existed in England during this period.