Cards (2)

    • Reasons for tighter imperial control:
      • Britain had a vast national debt [doubled from 1755-1763] following the 7 Years War, which would burden the American colonies. Many British MPs were disdainful of the colonies' lack of contribution.
      • Defence - with westward expansion would come greater threat from Natives.
      • Smuggling - had become apparent in 7 Years War.
      • Grenville - Apr 1763 became PM; main concern was reducing national debt [interest was £4.4m a year compared to government annual income of £8 million] - he had little option but to increase taxation. The cost of colonial administration had also risen from £70,000 in 1748 to £350,000 in 1763.
    • Pontiac's Rebellion...
      • Due to western encroachment by white settlers, Ohio Valley tribes, led by Pontiac, rose in revolt in May 1763, destroying the majority of western British posts, killing and capturing 100s of settlers in the process.
      • Native-American success short-lived, as in August, British forces lifted siege of Detroit. The British bribed most of the Iroquois to detach from Pontiac and many southern tribes to remain neutral.
      • Confirmed American inability to provide their own defence, confirming need for British troops.
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