BRITISH COLONIAL EMPIRE

Flashcards about British colonial empire.

Mercantilism

An economic trade system that spanned from the 16th century to the 18th century and was based on the idea that a nation’s wealth and power were best achieved through increasing exports and establishing trade relationships.

Treaty of Utrecht

Signed in 1713, significantly reshaped territorial control in favour of Britain; France ceded territories including Hudson Bay, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland; Britain gained Gibraltar and Minorca, and the right to conduct the slave trade with Spanish American colonies

East India Company

Founded in 1600, gradually gained control over much of India and played a central role in British imperialism in India as a powerful economic and political force.

Seven Years' War

A conflict (1756-1763) that ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1763 whereby Britain made substantial territorial gains (Canada) and emerged as the world's leading colonial power.

Australia

A colony gained in 1788 where New South Wales was founded as a British penal colony.

American Revolution

Led to the creation of the United States of America and the loss of the 13 American colonies in 1776 for Britain.

Adam Smith

The principles of colonialism and mercantilism were abandoned in the 19th century, influenced by his work Wealth of Nations (1776).

New Imperialism

Transformed into a new system based on free trade, marking a shift from the earlier models of colonialism.

Dominions

Self-governing countries within the British Empire, such as Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.

Government of India Act

Transferred control from the private East India Company directly to the British Crown in India.

First Opium War

Concluded with the Treaty of Nanking in 1842, resulting in Hong Kong's cession to Britain and the opening of five Chinese ports to British trade.

Protectorates

Territories that maintained their own local government but were also subject to an imperial authority responsible for defence and foreign affairs.

Proprietary colonies

Were land grants given as charters or licenses to rule, awarded to individuals, groups, or companies known as proprietors.

Royal colonies

Were directly controlled and managed by the King, who appointed a governor and a council to oversee them.

slave trade

The transatlantic , which began in the 16th century, was integral to the Empire's economic expansion, with Britain being the largest exporter of slaves.

Joseph Conrad

Is often regarded as an Impressionist writer due to his unique narrative style, where stories, imagery, and emotions are shaped by each character’s subjective vision of reality.

Heart of Darkness (1902)

Delves into the moral complexities of colonialism and its effect on individuals from supposedly "civilized" societies when placed in isolated, "primitive" settings.

Nostromo (1904)

Focuses on a more complex and emerging society where power struggles, economic exploitation, and social unrest are central themes.

The Secret Agent (1907)

Turns to a fully evolved society, set in London, which in contrast is liberal, humane and protected but has its underside of cruelty and savage force.

Kipling

His work is closely associated with British imperialism, with phrases from his verse, such as "the white man's burden," reflecting his belief in the Empire’s mission.