Pros and cons of the Empire

Introduction

It is estimated that the Empire had over 400 million subjects in the early 1900s (more than 20% of the world’s population at the time), and by 1920s, the Empire covered almost 25% of the global land area. Consequently, the British Empire left an important social, cultural, and political mark on these territories.

The Empire’s expansion is also what contributed to its decline, however, as it became increasingly difficult to protect and control all its territories. 

Pros and cons of the Empire for Britain

Some of the key benefits the Empire had for Britain included: access to economic resources; being able to become the most influential global political actor; being able to promote the rule of law, British language and culture; and having a huge military and financial support during the First and Second World Wars.

Some of the key drawbacks of the Empire for Britain were: ...