Final answer:
Great Britain was the only great European power in the eighteenth century that did not have a standing army and instead relied on mercenaries. This approach was aligned with its strategy to maintain a balance of power in Europe and to focus on naval power and economic supremacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Of the great European powers in the eighteenth century, the only one not to possess a standing army and to rely on mercenaries was Great Britain. During this era, most European countries maintained large, standing armies that were ready for conflict at any time. In contrast, Britain focused on its navy and economic strength to maintain power and engage in conflicts indirectly. This approach was part of its strategy to maintain the balance of power in Europe, preventing any one nation from becoming too dominant.
The Seven Years' War, which saw several great powers involved, led to a new balance where Britain emerged as the dominant empire. Instead of maintaining a large standing army, Britain hired mercenaries as needed while its navy ensured control over its colonies and trade routes. This was part of the British strategy to avoid large-scale continental wars and instead focus on colonial and naval dominance.