Reading comprehension - The British Empire Flashcards
What was the largest empire in the world?
The British Empire
How many people lived in the empire by 1921?
One quarter of the world’s population
What does this mean: The sun never set on The British Empire?
Because The British Empire covered so much of the surface os th Earth, the sun literally never set on it. It was always daylight somewhere in the Empire.
How did The British Empire expand over the centuries?
The British Empire expanded over hundreds of years by trade, settlement and conquest.
Who was John Cabot and what role did he play in The British Empire’s expansion?
John Cabot was an Italian mariner who was sponsored by King Henry VII of England. In 1497 he landed in Newfoundland, making it an English overseas territory, and marking the beginning of England’s overseas expansion.
What made England stronger during the Elizabethan era?
During the Elizabethan era, England became stronger primarily due to the defeat of the Spanish navy (the Armada) by the English navy. This victory established the English navy as the most powerful in the world at the time.
Who was Sir Francis Drake and shat was the significance of his voyage around the world
Sir Francis Drake was the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe in 1580. Also, he played a key role in the defeat of the Spanish navy. His successful voyage helped solidify England’s strenght and its ability to challenge powerful empires like Spain.
Which continent was the first to be colonized by the English?
North America
Which countries were the first to be colonized by England in North America?
The first territories colonized by England in North America included Canada and the Caribbean islandslike Jamaica and Barbados.
Who were the first Europeans to reach Australia?
The Dutch explorers were the first to reach Australia in the 17th century, but it was the English who first settled there.
How did the English establish its empire in Australia and New Zealand?
Britain established its empire in Australia and New Zealand starting with penal colonies.
What are penal colonies?
Penal colonies are settlements established by a country to which prisoners or convicts are sent to serve their sentences. In the case of Australia, for example, theBritish established penal colonies there starting in 1788, sending convicts from Britain to serve their sentences in the harsh conditions of the Australian colonies. Over time, these penal colonies grew into permanent settlements and eventually developed into full colonies.
What was unusual about the British East India Company?
The British East India Company was unusual because it started as a commercial trading organization but eventually became so powerful that it virtually ruled India. It even had its own army that fought many wars with local Indian rulers.
What role did the British East India Company play in the establishment of British power in India?
When did the British crown take control of the British East India company?
The British crown took control of the company in 1858.
