1879 was a pivotal year for the entire world, both politically and economically, greatly influenced by the Prusso-Russian War.
Due to the tense European situation, France and Austria both kept a tight watch on the European Continent, refraining from causing any disturbances. The British merely made a foray into South America, focusing their main energies on the European Continent as well.
With the three major bullies refraining from stirring trouble, there was even less need to mention other countries.
At this time, the political sensitivity of colonial empires was extremely high. With the tense situation on the European Continent, there wasn't a focused concentration on the homelands—what to do if the situation spiraled out of control?
With the colonial empires not causing disturbances, it was undoubtedly good news for those precarious independent nations, who could finally enjoy some days of comfort.