History - Unit 6 - The British Empire

Key Vocabulary For This Unit: Independence, Decolonisation, Migration, Empire Windrush, NHS, Racism, EEC, EU, Immigration And Referendum.

What ended the British Empire?

• Students will know that WW2 changed the world as countries started to campaign for independence.
• Students will know that after a long campaign, including the peaceful protests of Ghandi, India was granted independence in 1947.
• Students will know that the Suez Canal Crisis damaged the reputation of Britain and campaigns for independence from Kenya and Ghana were successful.

Why did people migrate to Britain after WW2?

• Students will know migrants came from the Caribbean to find work in Britain.
• Students will know that the partition of India led to violence so people moved to escape it (South Asia) and migrants arrived from East Asia from Hong Kong.
• Students will know that many Africans moved to Britain in search of better education and healthcare.

How did the arrival of Windrush impact Britain?

• Students will know that Windrush arrived in London from Jamaica on 22 June 1948. On board were people looking for a better life and work in Britain.
• The arrival had a vast impact on Britain as migrants filled important jobs in healthcare and transport.
• The arrival saw an increase in racism in Britain that ultimately led to Immigration Acts

What was Britain’s relationship like with Europe?

• Students will know that the European Economic Community (EEC) was established in 1957 but Britain was not a member.
• Students will know that Britain attempted to join the EEC but were not successful until 1973.
• Students will know that the EEC became the EU in 1993 under the Maastricht Treaty.

What was the impact of migration on Britain?

• Students will know that immigration caused tension in post- war Britain.
• Students will know that immigrant had a positive impact on industry and the arts.
• Students will know that the attitude towards Europe was mixed with referendums being held since 1973. Britain voted to leave in 2016.

How did the legacy of the empire impact post-war Britain from 1945?

The legacy of the empire significantly impacted post-war Britain in several ways:

1. Economic Strain: The loss of colonies reduced trade and economic resources, leading to financial challenges.

2. Migration: Many people from former colonies migrated to Britain, influencing demographics and cultural diversity.

3. National Identity: The decline of empire prompted debates about British identity and its role in the world.

4. Political Changes: The end of empire led to shifts in foreign policy and the decolonization movement, affecting international relations.

These factors collectively shaped Britain's social, economic, and political landscape in the post-war era.