By the end of the 17th century, colonists were importing many Africans via European slave traders as slaves to satisfy the demand for labor. There was limited demand for slaves and trade with America was not profitable, with the trade with the West Indies and South America remaining far more lucrative.
By the end of the 17th century, colonists were importing many Africans via European slave traders to fulfill labor needs. Meanwhile, trade with America was not profitable, whereas trade with the West Indies and South America remained more lucrative.