The South Sea Company was a British trading company established in 1711, primarily focused on trade in the South Seas, particularly in South America. It was granted a monopoly on trade in the region and aimed to capitalize on the lucrative trade of goods such as silver and other resources. The company also played a significant role in managing the national debt of Great Britain. In the early 18th century, the South Sea Company became infamous for its speculative bubble, known as the South Sea Bubble. This financial crisis occurred when the company's stock prices soared due to rampant speculation, leading to a dramatic collapse in 1720. The fallout from the bubble had lasting effects on the British economy and prompted reforms in financial regulation.