To be honest, this would optimize for maximal growth of wealth in a country though -- which likely rises all ships (ironic). It's why a small merchant city was

To be honest, this would optimize for maximal growth of wealth in a country though -- which likely rises all ships (ironic). It's why a small merchant city was able to survive so many years. It quite literally lasted for >1000 years and was one of the most successful cities / nations on Earth.