British History

I suppose that's its a function of an American--and especially Virginian--upbringing, but I don't think I ever read a 17th century history that was not American (and certainly not British!) until tonight. Thus, the BABL introduction actually provided a fascinating summary of an era and culture that I had never been exposed to. It was hard for me to read it outside of a colonial context. However, I think this provided an internal and subconscious comparison for me as I read: I found myself searching for early clues that may have predicted the events of the Revolution through the evidence of history. For this reason, I found the section on Religion, Government, and Party Politics most appealing.
I was unaware that when Revolution began in America, England itself was not far out from a dispute of rightful power. Further, I was surprised to learn that as recently as only 100 years prior, England had been working proactively towards a more democratic government of its own in response to a monarchy to which they disagreed (BABL 1004). It seems to me that the conflict between William and Mary and James would have left a lasting impression on the British people: one that would be more tolerant and understanding of the colonists complaints against a monarchy.
However, it does seem that money can explain almost everything. As the section on Ethical Dilemmas in a Changing Nation states, "the eighteenth century [had] a sense of inevitability of progress" (1012). Following an era of such colonial and economic progress, Britain may have never dreamed of losing its American colonies (1001). In literary terms, it seems Britain's only shortcoming was its hubris, fueled by an era of prosperity under Prime Minister Walpole and his King, George III.