In 1775 began the series of revolts which in less than half a century almost entirely expelled the European governments, except Great Britain, from the continent of America. The thirteen British colonies rose in 1775, and proclaimed their independence in 1776, which was acknowledged in 1783. In 1807 the connection between Portugal and Brazil was virtually dissolved, the royal family abandoning Europe, and taking refuge in America. The rising in the Spanish possessions began soon after in Buenos Ayres, Venezuela, and Chili. Mexico revolted in 1810, and secured its independence in 1821. The other states followed at various intervals, Bolivia in 1824 being the last. In 1825 the surrender of the castle of San Juan de Ulloa removed the last vestige of Spanish dominion on the American continent. In 1867 Russia sold her possessions to the United States.