Prior to the French and Indian
War, Britain had essentially left its American colonies to run themselves,
a time often referred to as the age of “salutary neglect.” Given
relative freedom to do as they pleased, the North American settlers
established unique forms of government to match their rugged sense
of adventure and developing identity as Americans. But after the
French and Indian War, Britain’s relations with the colonies changed
dramatically. Hoping to refill its empty treasury, Parliament levied
more taxes on the Americans and tightened regulations governing
trade.
Americans were outraged and offended at what
they considered encroachments on their liberties. Over time, this
indignation grew into a strong desire for rebellion. In just twelve
years, between the end of the French and Indian War and the outbreak
of the Revolutionary War, Americans transformed from loyal colonists
into revolutionary patriots.
