1.1 Expansion of the British Empire in Africa Flashcards
What was the extent of Britain’s territorial empire in 1857?
Britain controlled a vast territorial empire spread across all continents of the world, eclipsing its formal rivals.
What was Britain’s naval and economic status in the world in 1857?
Britain had the largest, most powerful navy and was the richest, most developed industrial economy.
How did many Britons view the Empire in 1857?
Many viewed the Empire with indifference, with some believing it was a burden rather than a benefit.
Why was India considered distinct in the British Empire?
India was large, important for trade, rich, had an immense population, and was ruled by the East India Company until 1858.
What is an Informal Empire?
Territories influenced by the British but not directly ruled, where British traders exerted influence through advantageous agreements.
Protectorate
An area with its own ruler, but under the protection of the British crown, controlling military and influencing domestic policy.
What is Chartered Company Rule?
An area ruled by a trading company with a special licence from the government granting it political and economic rights.
What is a Veiled Protectorate?
A state controlled indirectly by another state.
What moral factors contributed to the British Empire’s expansion in Africa?
Christian missionaries aimed to spread their faith and viewed the Empire as a force for ‘civilisation’ and ‘enlightenment’.
How did trade and the economy play a role in the expansion of the British Empire in Africa?
The industrial revolution allowed British merchants to discover new raw materials for manufacturing and investment opportunities.
What happened when Turkey sided with Germany in WW1?
Britain stopped supporting Turkey and won a lot of Turkish land after the war.
What was Britain’s attitude to Egypt in 1857?
In 1857, the idea that Egypt would fall under British control was laughable. Britain was largely hostile towards the Muslim rulers of Egypt.
Why did Britain’s interest in Egypt grow?
- Starvation of cotton during the American Civil War
- Investment in Egyptian cotton production
- Isma’il Pasha’s project to cut the Suez Canal
- Completion of the Suez Canal in 1869
- Disraeli purchasing shares in the canal in 1875 (£4m worth)
What was the significance of the Suez Canal for Britain?
The Suez Canal made the trading route to India 6,000 miles shorter than via the Cape.
Who was Isma’il Pasha?
Khedive of Egypt
Initiated the Suez Canal project.
What led to Britain establishing control in Egypt?
- Purchase of Suez Canal shares (£4m)
- Dual control of the Egyptian economy
- Deposition of Isma’il Pasha
- Wielding influence over Tewfiq
What was the ‘Veiled Protectorate’ in Egypt?
A situation where Tewfiq was restored as a puppet ruler under British control, with British advisors effectively ruling Egypt. Evelyn Baring, the Consul General, was effectively incharge
Who was General Gordon?
Governor-General of Sudan from 1877 to 1880, known for his opposition to the slave trade.
Who was the Mahdi?
The Mahdi opposed British rule and sought to liberate Sudan.
What did PM Gladstone order General Gordon to do after General Hicks’ death?
Gladstone ordered General Gordon to evacuate the Egyptian and British troops from Khartoum in 1884.
What happened to General Gordon and the Khartoum garrison?
General Gordon stayed at Khartoum despite orders, leading to the garrison being overrun and Gordon being killed in 1885.
Why didn’t Gladstone retaliate after Gordon’s death?
Gladstone did not retaliate to avoid further loss of life and money for no obvious gain.
