Royal Tourists, Colonial Subjects and the Making of a British World, 1860-1911

Examines the nineteenth-century royal tour from the perspectives of various historical actors – including royals, politicians and indigenous people – in order to demonstrate how a multi-valent British culture was created throughout the empire.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2018
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the ceremonial realm of nineteenth-century royal tours of empire, exploring the intricate tapestry of historical actors who graced these remarkable journeys. It reveals that the diverse reactions to these royal tours shed light on the dynamic process of forging a multi-faceted British imperial culture that was continually shaped, reshaped, appropriated, and contested. Within this rich context, subjects of the empire played a pivotal role in provincializing the British Isles, centering the colonies in their own political and cultural constructions of empire, Britishness, citizenship, and loyalty.

The nineteenth century witnessed a significant era of royal tours across the vast expanse of the empire. These tours served as a powerful means of showcasing the grandeur and might of the British monarchy, while also facilitating cultural exchange and diplomacy. However, these tours were not without their complexities and controversies.

One of the key aspects of these royal tours was the way in which they were perceived and interpreted by different groups of people. The British Empire was a vast and diverse entity, with different cultures, languages, and customs prevailing in each of its territories. As a result, the royal tours were seen as a means of asserting British dominance and influence, while also promoting cultural understanding and appreciation.

However, not everyone welcomed these tours with open arms. Many indigenous populations viewed them as a symbol of colonial oppression and exploitation, as the British sought to impose their own cultural values and beliefs on the local populations. This led to protests, resistance, and even violence in some cases.

Another significant aspect of these royal tours was the role that they played in shaping the British imperial identity. The tours allowed the British royal family to interact with people from all walks of life, and to gain a deeper understanding of the cultures and customs of the empire. This, in turn, helped to shape the British sense of self and identity, as they came to see themselves as the guardians of a vast and diverse empire.

However, the imperial identity that was forged during these tours was not without its contradictions and complexities. The British were often accused of exploiting and oppressing the people of the empire, and of treating them as second-class citizens. This led to a growing sense of resentment and resistance among the indigenous populations, who began to question the legitimacy of the British rule.

Despite these challenges, the royal tours of the nineteenth century continued to play a significant role in shaping the British Empire. They helped to cement the British monarchy's position as a global power, while also promoting cultural exchange and understanding. However, they also highlighted the need for greater sensitivity and respect for the diverse cultures and traditions of the empire.

In conclusion, this study examines the ritual space of nineteenth-century royal tours of empire and the diverse array of historical actors who participated in them. It suggests that the varied responses to the royal tours of the nineteenth century demonstrate how a multi-centred British imperial culture was forged in the empire and was constantly made and remade, appropriated and contested. In this context, subjects of the empire provincialised the British Isles, centring the colonies in their political and cultural constructions of empire, Britishness, citizenship, and loyalty.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 234 x 160 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526122896