Which conflict marked a shift in the British approach to fighting by starting in the colonies and expanding to Europe?

The Seven Years War, often considered the first global conflict, marked a significant shift in British military strategy as it began in the colonies and expanded to Europe. Initially, the war was predominantly centered around colonial disputes, especially over territory in North America, as well as conflicts in India and the Caribbean. However, it quickly escalated into a broader conflict involving major European powers, leading to battles in Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

This war represented a pivotal change for the British Empire, as it necessitated the coordination of military efforts across multiple theaters of war. The British began to deploy larger armies and adopt a more strategic approach that integrated colonial and European resources to achieve victory. The outcome also led to significant changes in colonial policy, including increased taxation and regulation, which ultimately contributed to rising tensions that would lead to the American Revolutionary War. Thus, the Seven Years War not only transformed British military tactics but also had lasting consequences for the relationship between Britain and its American colonies.