Supporters and critics 1890-14

Question 1

Give evidence that there was widespread support for the Empire

Answer 1

• It was widely supported at all levels of society which could be seen in the Conservatives impressive win in the
  khaki election of 1900.
• Lord Salisbury was a moderate imperial who believed European rule was important for the advancement of the ‘backward races’.
• Viceroy Curzon Empire was a ‘great instrument for the good of humanity’.
• Alfred Milner believed a British man should feel equally at home anywhere in the Empire.
• Joseph Chamberlain believed Empire could solve the crisis of the industrial and military advances of other powers.
  -> believed a reorganised empire would enable industrial recovery and provide employment.

Question 2

What was the Khaki election

Answer 2

• During 2nd Boer War, British forces were known as khakis because their uniforms were a dull brownish-yellow colour, designed to merge with the terrain.
• During the war the government called an election to exploit public approval.
  -> gave a rise to the term ‘khaki election’ for subsequent elections in similar circumstances.

Question 3

List some critics of Empire

Answer 3

• John A Hobson
• Emily Hobhouse
• William Digby
• Herbert Spencer

Question 4

how did John A Hobson criticise the empire

Answer 4

• One of the strongest critics was John A. Hobson.
  -> His views were catalysed by the Boer War.
• He believed that
  imperial expansion benefited the rich capitalists who made profit through investment, he believed this small and powerful elite were who shaped imperial policy.
• He thought empire was a ‘capitalist plot’.

Question 5

How did Emily Hobhouse criticise the empire

Answer 5

• wrote reports which led to a government enquiry into the conditions in the British
  concentration camps.
• This helped to tarnish the allure of imperialism and its supposed civilising mission.

Question 6

How did William Digby criticise the Empire

Answer 6

• a writer and propagandist who had served in India and set up the Indian political and General
  Agency in London in order to raise awareness about Indian grievances in the British Parliament and press in
  1888.

Question 7

How did Herbert Spencer criticise the Empire

Answer 7

• an influential philosopher who criticised the Victorian enthusiasm for colonial acquisition
  of colonies.