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• The article discusses the rise and fall of the British Empire, beginning with its origins in 1497 and ending in 1997.
• It explains how the Empire grew to become the most powerful nation in world history, but eventually declined due to internal and external pressures.
• The article traces the timeline of events leading up to its decline, including World War I, decolonization, and the decline of Britain’s global influence.
Introduction
The British Empire was a major force in world history for over 400 years. Beginning in 1497 when Henry VII began to explore new lands, it eventually became one of the largest and most powerful empires ever seen. By 1897, it had grown to span over 13 million square miles and include a quarter of all people on Earth.
Rise of the British Empire
During this time period, Britain acquired numerous colonies across every continent and established itself as a major naval power with control over much of international trade. Its wealth increased significantly from resources such as gold, spices, cotton, tea, coal, tobacco, rubber and timber harvested from its colonies around the world.
Decline of the British Empire
However by 1937 things had begun to change; World War I had weakened Britain’s economy significantly and it was no longer able to maintain control over its vast empire. As other countries emerged as major powers during this time period (such as Germany) Britain’s global influence declined drastically. Additionally during this time period many former colonies began pushing for independence which led to large-scale decolonization efforts throughout Africa and Asia between 1945 – 1960s resulting in further loss of territory for Britain.
Post-Colonialism Era
Despite these losses Britain continued to remain an important player in international affairs throughout much of 20th century . In 1997 however it finally relinquished its last remaining overseas possession Hong Kong which symbolically marked end an era for once great empire .