The major consequence of the American Revolution on colonial possessions was the shift of territory and power away from Europe to the newly formed United States. The revolution led to the eventual creation of a democratic nation that emphasized individual liberties and governance through the will of the people. Following independence, former colonies in the Americas began to pursue their own movements for independence, inspired by U.S. successes. Furthermore, the weakening of European colonial powers set the stage for larger shifts towards decolonization and independence throughout Latin America and even influenced revolutionary movements in Europe.