Rivalry for the control of North America came to a head after 1754. Already, the struggle waged among the English, the French, and the Indians had brought on three wars during the first half of the eighteenth century. That struggle now culminated in a fourth and final conflict, the Seven Years' War (1754-1763). But Britain's total victory in that fight and the end of French power in North America did not bring lasting peace. Native Americans continued the battle to protect their territory and political sovereignty west of the Appalachians. At the same time, Britain's determination to consolidate its American empire revived the ambivalence of many colonials toward the parent country. Parliament hoped to bind the colonies to the British Empire through new laws and regulations, but this legislation served only to alienate Americans already wary of the inequalities in English society and the corruption of English politics. Popular opposition to Britain's new measures led ultimately to rebellion and independence.