ABSTRACT
To most British and European observers, the Colonists’ challenge appeared to offer little chance of success. Britain was at the height of its power following the Seven Years War and the defeat of France and Spain. It had a population of almost eight million, the largest merchant marine in the world, the most advanced industry, and a system of credit that was the envy of Europe. During the recent war the navy had mobilized almost 100 battleships of 60 to 100 guns and twice that number of frigates and smaller craft, the whole manned by 85,000 seamen. 1
