Which best describes how nations used the theory of mercantilism to increase their wealth in the sixteenth century? nations sought to maximize the export of raw materials and natural resources from newly colonized lands to grow wealth. nations purchased low-risk stocks and bonds to gain a competitive edge in the new world economy. nations sought to reduce the amount of gold used in their coinage in order to save and stockpile their gold reserves. nations sought to maximize the purchase of imports from rival nations to accumulate raw materials.