The Wind Of Change + Decolonisation

Question 1

When did Br retreat from the empire begin

Answer 1

-1951 it started with withdrawal India 1947 + pressures or colonial independence movement in 1950s harder to contain
-early 1950s believed could manage gradual transition empire to new commonwealth + colonial resistance movements controlled until ready for independence
-but nobody any idea of challenges awaiting

Question 2

What was the Mau Mau rebellion

Answer 2

-violent nationalist uprising in Kenya against Br colonial rule
-leader of revolt Jomo Kenyatta imprisoned by authorities but later emerged president of independent Kenya
-Mau Mau fighters accused committing atrocities + revelation about brutal treatments if captives at Hola Prison camp damaged Br reputation

Question 3

What were the problems with Br colonial policies

Answer 3

-difficulty contain rebellion showed Br colonial policies problematic
-after suez policy makers reconsider pace decolonisation
-1957 Ghana first Br African colony gain independence
-Nigeria + Cyprus independent 1960
-shift in Br policy signalled by Mac Wind of change speech

Question 4

What was Mac wind of change speech

Answer 4

-before 1960 central aim imperial policy defeat nationalist revolts + maintain control over colonies
-Mac speech at Cape Town describing wind of change blowing through Africana continent
-Mac calling for decolonisation + recognition of independence movements + seeking persuade countries accept majority rule
-South Africa preferred minority white rule + referendum voted break all ties with Br

Question 5

How successful was wind of change policy

Answer 5

-extremely successful
-Br decolonisation completed swiftly + less violence than the case with other colonial powers Belgium + Portugal
-by 1964 transition empire to commonwealth represent significant achievement