HIST 265-01, British Empire and Commonwealth, Fall 1998

Abstract

This course will introduce students to some of the main historical developments in the British Empire and Commonwealth during the period 1713-1970. During this time Britain gained, and lost, an empire unrivaled in human history. It is the objective of this course to understand some of the main reasons for British imperial expansion in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and the retreat from empire in the twentieth century. The impact of empire on British political, social and economic life will be considered, as will be the influence of British culture and institutions on the colonies. Imperial ideas, the growth of racial attitudes, and other intellectual issues and social problems associated with the empire will also be addressed. It is intended that students will leave the course with a firm understanding of the nature, extent, and importance of the British empire.