In your opinion, the United Kingdom became the first world power in 1763 or in 1815?

[Julie4]

The majority of historians choose one of these two dates to mark the start of the UK's global pre-eminence.

Although the majority of historians say it is from 1815 some historians prefer the date of 1763

[Avicenna]

Definitely 1763 because its victory in the Seven Years War booted the French Empire out of North America and India. If anything, 1815 was closer to the low point for the British Empire since it had lost the United States and hadn't acquired its African colonies yet.

[jamesgoldman]

1815... Waterloo, industrial revolution and the run of silver crowns and gold sovereigns within a few years of that

[Julie4]

I would also say that in 1815 at the end of Waterloo that the United Kingdom became the first world power.

However 1763 is not silly. England has already the beginning of its industrial revolution, it appropriates practically all the French empire, has no more rival on sea, becomes the first commercial and financial power of the world.

Even the loss of the 13 colonies in America will have no real consequences for the overall position of the United Kingdom.

Although with the French revolution and the empire, the United Kingdom was threatened, it finally crushed France in 1815.

[TadCurious]

I'm not a historian but it seems to me that Britain's defeat by the Americans would be a factor in picking the latter date.

[MarkRet]

Probably 1763. By then, the UK already had colonies all around the world, and a navy to back it up.

[Iron_Man]

I like England a lot very friendly people very nice countryside

[Julie4]

It's great but it doesn't really answer my question lol

[Iron_Man]

Well when you’ve had zero sleep that’s what happens but know that I like England

[Cubus]

Spain and Portugal were world powers before it, after colonisation of America.

[historectomy]

this man chose fax

[slatyb]

Earlier with the defeat of the Spanish armada.

[RyanEC]

I would say in 1763 after the 7 years war.

[Kelly6]

1763,

[jimmy2]

I don't know