Final answer:
The colonists' new self-confidence heightened tensions with British officials, as it urged them towards greater autonomy and clashed with British interests regarding control and taxation, eventually leading to the American Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Colonists' new self-confidence primarily heightened tensions with British officials. This rise in self-assurance stemmed from several factors. Colonists increasingly believed in the legitimacy of self-governance and their rights as British citizens, notably influenced by the Bill of Rights. Assemblies sought to expand their power over colonial matters, and the experience of joint military efforts during the 'European' War boosted a sense of shared identity and colonial pride. However, the differing perspectives on the use and governance of western lands added to the strain, with the British government hoping to retain control and the colonists seeking more independence.
Moreover, the colonial assemblies and their constant push for more autonomy often resulted in British officials, such as governors, having to concede to their demands, which encouraged a stronger sense of independence among colonists. This burgeoning self-government clashed with the British desire to enforce imperial laws and collect taxes. Back in Great Britain, the violent reactions to measures like the Stamp Act and the impact of colonial non-importation agreements on British merchants further complicated matters, leading to a divide within Britain itself regarding colonial policy.
Ultimately, the boosted self-confidence of the colonists significantly altered the dynamics of the American-British relationship. Tensions escalated, culminating in the breakout of the American Revolution, which would not only lead to a military conflict but also a social upheaval across the colonies, ushering in a new era of democratic governance that would have a lasting global impact.