3.5 - Imperialist Ideas Flashcards
How did the British public feel about the Empire from 1914 to 1947?
Very few questioned the Empire’s importance. It was seen as a sign of Britain’s prestige and economic prosperity.
What was the perception of the Empire’s role in World War I?
The Empire was seen as key to Britain’s victory in WW1.
What was the public perception of Gandhi’s visit to Britain in the 1930s?
Some people were impressed by Gandhi.
How did the British public generally view the Empire?
Most saw the Empire as benevolent, justifying repression to maintain control.
What was the public sentiment regarding the loss of India in 1947?
People lamented the loss and did not support the ultimate dissolution of the British Empire.
What was the Labour Party’s belief regarding the remaining colonies?
They believed the remaining colonies were key to Britain’s recovery and future prosperity.
How did the message of the British Empire change post-World War I?
Explicit jingoism lost its attraction; the Empire was presented as a family of nations led by Britain.
What was the public knowledge about dominions and colonies in 1948?
3/4 of the population did not know the difference between a dominion and a colony.
What was the role of the Empire Marketing Board established in 1926?
Promoted consumption of Empire-produced items in Britain through advertising.
What was the significance of the Wembley Exhibition of 1924?
It showcased the Empire, attracting over 17 million visitors
What was the educational focus regarding the Empire in schools?
The Empire was a focal point for geography, history, and literature teachings.
How did cinema contribute to the promotion of the Empire?
Feature films used the Empire as a backdrop for adventure, promoting excitement and British character.
What role did music play in promoting the Empire?
Composers created works that celebrated imperial themes, such as Edward Elgar’s compositions.
How did commercial advertising promote the Empire?
Imperial motifs were used in advertising, especially by large traders with the Empire.
What informal links did emigration and missionaries create regarding the Empire?
Many had relatives in the colonies, creating direct connections to the Empire.
What was the purpose of Empire Day?
To create a sense of belonging to the family of nations under the same monarch.
What was the impact of pro-imperial propaganda on public perception?
There was considerable propaganda, but it did not necessarily prove widespread influence.
How did social class affect attitudes towards the Empire?
Affluent classes may have had family in colonial service, while many working-class people found it irrelevant.
What was one way the working class in Britain was influenced by imperial ideas?
Experience of fighting in the empire during the wars
This heightened their awareness and influence of imperial ideas.
What role did the press and books play in influencing the working class?
Increased literacy rates because of the education act. This allowed more people to engage more with imperial content
Fill in the blank: The working class was concerned with _______ issues such as work.
Bread and butter
‘Bread and butter issues’
Basic economic needs and social reforms that were prioritised over imperial concerns.
What media was influential among the middle class regarding imperial ideas?
Radio, BBC were significant in disseminating information about the empire to the middle class.
True or False: The Great Depression had no impact on the middle class’s view of imperialism.
False
The Great Depression was an international development that affected middle-class interests, possibly diverting attention from imperial concerns.
