Great Britain 1770's
Political struggles continue over freedom of election, the press and freedom of speech, exacerbated by King George III's undemocratic dealings in the parliament. Slavery is ended in Britain, but continues in her colonies. Britain relieves some colonial taxes, but resentment across the Atlantic grows. As colonial resentments peak, the War of American Independence is begun. The steam powered engine has been improved and the first sale to industry (a pump for mining) is made in 1775, thus beginning the Industrial Revolution. Before this time, most machines that existed were powered by water, wind and people in small factories or at home "cottage industries".
Great Britain 1780's
By 1783, Great Britain admits the loss of its 13 Colonies and recognizes the new United States of America. This speeds the trend towards stronger parliaments, less effective monarchs, and eventually improved representation. The slave trade is delivering 100,000 slaves to North America each year, with slaver ships following a triangular trade path from Europe (especially Britain and France) to Africa, to America and back to Europe. Anti-slavery attitudes grow. Penal colonies are established in Australia. Breech-loading guns replace barrel-loaded muskets. The spinning-mule revolutionizes thread spinning and textile industries, and is just as quickly overcome by the steam-driven loom. High quality cast iron can now be made through a continuous process and becomes prolific. Steam improves production in mines, blast furnaces, spinning and weaving factories, paper mills, flour mills and breweries where coal and iron have taken over from wood and water. Education of youth begins in "Sunday Schools", as most youths work in factories during the week. The London Times newspaper begins publication.