William Pitt became Prime Minister in 1783 at just 24 years old. He came to power soon after the American War of Independence (1776-1783). Britain's status as a superpower had been undermined by this loss, and she was now isolated in Europe. The war had left Britain with huge national debt, and the dramatic fall in exports to America meant that her finances were also in an awful state. It was in this climate of political instability …showed first 75 words of 1871 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1871 total…the King. His powerful friends undoubtedly contributed to his maintenance of power. Throughout his rule, Pitt used those around him to make policies. Many of the decisions he made were based on the advice of others. He repealed anything that proved unpopular to protect his position as Prime Minister. It is therefore difficult to argue that Pitt actually dominated politics from 1783-1793, since as an individual he was easily dissuaded in the face of opposition.