British Dominance

Definition

British Dominance refers to the period during the 18th and 19th centuries when Great Britain emerged as a global superpower, exerting significant political, economic, and cultural influence over various regions across the world. This dominance was characterized by a vast colonial empire, strategic naval power, and industrial advancements that facilitated British control and exploitation of resources in colonized territories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. By the 19th century, Britain controlled about one-quarter of the world's land and population, making it the largest empire in history.
2. The British Navy was crucial to maintaining dominance, as it protected trade routes and suppressed rival powers through naval superiority.
3. The wealth generated from colonies fueled Britain's industrial growth, making it a leader in manufacturing and technology during the Industrial Revolution.
4. British Dominance also led to cultural influences around the world, including the spread of the English language, legal systems, and educational practices.
5. Resistance movements in various colonies emerged as responses to British rule, leading to conflicts that would eventually challenge British Dominance.

Review Questions

• How did British Dominance shape global trade patterns during its peak?
  • British Dominance significantly influenced global trade patterns by establishing extensive trade networks that linked colonies with Britain. The mercantilist policies enforced by Britain prioritized the export of raw materials from colonies and the import of finished goods back to them. This system allowed Britain to monopolize trade routes and control resources, which not only enriched the British economy but also affected local economies within the colonies.
• Evaluate the impact of the Industrial Revolution on British Dominance and its colonial policies.
  • The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on British Dominance by transforming Britain's economy into one based on mass production and technological innovation. This economic shift increased Britain's need for raw materials from its colonies, reinforcing colonial policies that prioritized resource extraction. Furthermore, advancements in transportation and communication facilitated more effective governance over distant territories and allowed for rapid movement of goods, contributing to Britain's imperial expansion.
• Assess the long-term consequences of British Dominance for both Britain and its former colonies in the 20th century.
  • The long-term consequences of British Dominance included significant economic, political, and social impacts for both Britain and its former colonies. For Britain, the loss of colonies post-World War II led to a re-evaluation of its global role and economic strategies. Meanwhile, former colonies experienced a struggle for independence and identity after centuries of British rule, often grappling with issues like economic dependency, cultural assimilation, and political instability. These legacies continue to influence relationships between Britain and its former colonies today.

Related terms

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring and maintaining colonies or territories by a foreign power, often involving the subjugation of local populations.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that emphasizes the role of government in regulating trade to enhance national power, often associated with colonial expansion.

Industrial Revolution: A period of rapid industrial growth and technological advancement that began in Britain in the late 18th century, transforming economies and societies.