ABSTRACT
Britain became involved in the war partly as a result of traditional political concerns about the balance of power in Europe, but there were also concerns about the new principles being proclaimed by the French. During the summer of 1792, under the pressure of the European war, the Revolution took further radical lurches. The French declaration of war on 1 February 1793 seemed to many on both sides to be the inevitable outcome of the increasing tension and hostility, and it probably pre-empted a similar declaration from the British. The acquisition of French colonial possessions was relatively successful. The young generals of the Revolution, with the plentiful resources offered by conscription and revolutionary enthusiasm, eagerly sought battle, and, relying on the revolutionary ardour of their men, they aimed at the complete destruction of the enemy.
