The Impact Of Imperialism In Britain

Imperialism was a huge force in British history between 1880 and 1950 and during this time Britain became one of the world's largest imperial powers. According to Cornell Law School, “Imperialism can be defined as a doctrine, political strategy, practice, state policy, or advocacy that consists in extending power by territorial acquisition or by extending political and economic control outward over other areas.” Imperialism affected Britain economically, politically and culturally. One of the most significant impacts of imperialism on Britain was economically. Imperialism made it to where Britain could access the resources of its colonies which included labor and materials which allowed the country to expand its economy. For example, Britain’s power over India gave the country access to cotton which was a key component of their textile industry. Imperialism also gave British goods new markets. The acquisition of colonies in Asia and Africa allowed Britain to sell its manufactured goods to new markets. This boosted the country's exports and helped maintain its economic dominance. Imperialism also helped secure Britain's access to key strategic resources, such as rubber and oil, which were essential to the country's industrial economy.

According to cepr.org, “Evidence from the age of high imperialism suggests that political relationships can be as powerful at dictating trade flows as geography and other institutional factors, such as currency unions or widespread fixed exchange rate regimes like the gold standard.” The expansion of the British Empire led to a shift in the country's foreign policy, with a greater focus on expanding and maintaining its global influence. This led to the development of a new class of diplomats and politicians who were dedicated to maintaining Britain's imperial power and protecting its interests