The Break-Up of Greater Britain

This collection of essays examines the global impact of the break-up of Britain in the decades after the Second World War, exploring how peoples and cultures of all races and creeds were involved in the liquidation of the British Empire. The essays offer a sober historical perspective at a time when trace-elements of Greater Britain have resurfaced in British politics, particularly with the Brexit debate.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This groundbreaking collection of essays takes a fresh look at the dissolution of the British Empire, examining the complex web of peoples and cultures from all races and creeds that were caught up in the aftermath of World War II. A team of esteemed historians comes together to explore this familiar topic from an unexpected angle, spanning from India to China, Southern Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the Falklands, Gibraltar, and the United Kingdom itself. In a time when remnants of Greater Britain are once again surfacing in British politics, fueling the heated debates surrounding Brexit, these essays provide a sobering historical perspective. More than ever, it is crucial to gain a fresh understanding of the global challenges to British identities in the 20th century.

The British Empire's demise was not just a local event; it was a global phenomenon that had far-reaching consequences. The empire's liquidation involved the displacement of millions of people, the dismantling of political and economic systems, and the emergence of new nation-states. This process was not without its challenges, as different peoples and cultures struggled to adapt to the changing political and social landscape.

One of the most significant challenges facing the British Empire in the decades after World War II was the rise of nationalism. As the empire's territories gained independence, many people began to feel a sense of identity and belonging to their own nation-state. This led to the emergence of political movements that sought to promote the interests of their respective countries, often at the expense of the British Empire.

Another challenge was the emergence of new technologies and transportation systems that facilitated the movement of people and goods across the globe. This led to the growth of international trade and the development of global economic systems. However, this also created new inequalities and challenges, as some countries were able to benefit more from these systems than others.

The dissolution of the British Empire also had significant cultural consequences. As the empire's territories gained independence, they were able to develop their own unique cultures and traditions. This led to the emergence of new forms of art, music, and literature that reflected the diversity of the new nation-states. However, it also led to the loss of some traditional cultural practices and languages.

In conclusion, the dissolution of the British Empire was a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that had far-reaching consequences for peoples and cultures from all over the world. While it brought about the emergence of new nation-states and the growth of international trade, it also led to the displacement of millions of people, the dismantling of political and economic systems, and the emergence of new challenges to British identities. It is important to remember the lessons of the past and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable global society.

Weight: 467g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526174468