What did the Royal Mineral Ordinance of 1783 state regarding certain resources?

The Royal Mineral Ordinance of 1783 was significant because it established that all minerals, gems, and substances extracted from the earth were considered property of the Crown. This meant that any valuable resources found underground, such as metals and precious stones, were not privately owned but rather belonged to the governing authority. The ordinance was a reflection of the economic principles of the time, emphasizing control over valuable natural resources which were seen as crucial for the wealth of the state.

Other potential answers touch on different aspects of land and resource management but do not pertain to the specific focus of the ordinance. For example, while forests, waterways, fish, and wildlife are all important resources, they were not the primary concern of the Royal Mineral Ordinance, which was strictly about mineral rights. Understanding this distinction is key to grasping the implications of the ordinance and its role in shaping resource management practices.