英语国家概况,课件(五)Chapter 2 History 4.docxVIP

The Formation of the Empire1) The British Empire began with the colonization of Newfoundland (纽芬兰) in 1583, the first British colony overseas.2) First British Empire (1583-1837)Included the colonies in Canada, Australia,New Zealand, India and many small states in West Indies.3) Second British Empire(1837-1901): The Victorian Age witnessed the establishment of the Second British Empire. 4) Victoria’s reign---tremendous achievements and made Britain the largest colonial empire in the world by 20th c. 3. ResultsOn the Eve of World War I, Britain was the largest colonial empire the world had ever seen. It controlled a territory of 33.5 million square kilometers, about 1/4 of the world’s landmass, about 137 times as large as Britain. It ruled over a population of 393.5 million, about eight times that of Britain itself. The British boasted that they were “the Sun Never Set Empire”, consisted of a vast number of protectorates (保护国), Crown colonies (英国殖民地), spheres of influences (势力范围), and self-governing domains (自治领). 2.3.2. Britain in the World Wars1. Britain in the First World War2. Britain between the Two Wars3. Britain in the Second World War2.3.2.1. Britain in the First World War 1914-1918Imperialism.（20th.C）The power balance in Europe had undergone changes. 3. A conflict of interests and colonial rivalry divided Europe into two camps:the Central Powers:Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Empire, BulgariaThe Allied Powers (协约国) --- France, the Russian Empire, Italy, the United States2. Immediate cause for WWI: On June 28, 1914, the Austrian Archduke Francis Ferdinand was assassinated by a young Yugoslav in Sarajevo for the conflict on the Balkan Peninsula.3. During the war: The British navy played a very important role in the ultimate triumph.4. Results:The war ended with the victory for the Allies. Britain was drained of its manpower. Britain lost the sea supremacy. Business was slack in Britain. 2.3.2.2 Britain between the Two WarsGeorge V → Edward VII