What was the British Empire?
Q: What was the British Empire?
A: The British Empire was made up of colonies, protectorates, mandates and other territories which were controlled by the United Kingdom. It began with overseas colonies and trading posts set up by England between the late 16th and early 18th centuries.
Q: When did it reach its peak?
A: At its height, it was the largest empire in history, and the world's most powerful superpower for more than a century.
Q: Was slavery used in Britain's colonies?
A: Yes, slavery was used by European powers in the Americas, Britain included. Millions of black people were captured from Africa and forced to work in colonies of European empires. However, England was the first of the European powers to ban slavery, and used the Royal Navy to reinforce its ban.
Q: How many people lived in the British Empire at its peak?
A: By 1922, more than 458 million people lived in the British Empire.
Q: What is meant when it is said that "the sun never sets" on this empire?
A: This phrase refers to how large it was - since it controlled land on every inhabited continent, there would always be somewhere within its boundaries where it would be daytime or night time depending on what time zone you are looking at.
Q: Who were some of Britain's rivals during colonization?
A: England fought wars against both France and Netherlands during colonization for control over certain territories.
Q: When did Britain give Hong Kong back to China?
A: Hong Kong was given back to China on 1 July 1997 which marked an effective end of the British Empire as we know it today.
