1774: Great Compromise enacted to avoid possible armed conflict between Britain and her colonies. Britain grants self-rule and representation in parliament to the North American colonies. The colonies are organized into the Commonwealth of British North America. After taking all what is now USA an Canada, USA was still under Britain. 1780: The British adopt a breach loading rifle invented by an American. This will give them an edge over other nations. 1782: Watt invents steam engine. Factories created. British battle Russians in Crimea and win the war. 1789: Great Peasant Revolt begins in France.