Abstract:
This article looks at the unique problems encountered by commercial interests in coastal North Carolina during the 18th century utilizing data contained in 1768-1772 British customs returns. This data was overlooked by historian Charles Christopher Crittenden in his 1936 article, 'Commerce of North Carolina, 1763-1789,' leading Combs to challenge Crittenden's conclusions and place his focus on the delicate balance between maritime trade, mercantilism, and economic development.