Making the British Empire, 1660-1800

This collection provides a fresh perspective on the origins and nature of the first British empire, addressing neglected topics and analyzing contemporary debates about political economy, legal geography, sovereignty, and the costs and losses of empire.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This collection provides a timely reassessment of the origins and nature of the first British empire, in response to the 'cultural turn' in historical scholarship and the 'new imperial history.' It addresses topics that have been neglected in recent literature, offering a series of political and institutional perspectives while recognizing the importance of developments across the empire, particularly in terms of their impact on imperial policy and its implementation. The book analyzes a range of contemporary debates and ideas related to political economy, legal geography, sovereignty, and the messy realities of the imperial project, including the costs and losses of empire, both collectively and individually.

The collection explores the complex and multifaceted origins of the first British empire, examining the political, economic, and cultural factors that shaped its development.

It delves into the debates surrounding the establishment of the empire, including the motivations of the British government, the impact on indigenous populations, and the challenges faced by imperial administrators.

The book also examines the nature of the empire itself, including its territorial extent, economic systems, and cultural diversity.

It explores the various policies and practices employed by the British government to maintain and expand the empire, including taxation, colonization, and military intervention.

The collection also considers the legacy of the first British empire, examining the long-term effects on the countries and peoples that were colonized.

It explores the ongoing debates and controversies surrounding the empire, including questions of imperialism, colonialism, and decolonization.

Overall, this collection offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of the first British empire, providing a valuable contribution to the field of historical scholarship.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526167002