1. The British Empire

2. List of content History The ''First'' British Empire (1583-1783)
The ''Second'' British Empire ( )
What is the Commonwealth?
Actual status

3. The ''First'' British Empire
1583: Humphrey Gilbert arrived in Newfoundland (Canada)
Took over the island ( became part of the British Empire)
1603: King James VI. (scotish) ascended the throne of England
Established peace with main rival Spain
Focus on setting up its own overseased colonies
Following years: British Empire started settleing
North America, Caribbean Islands
Establishment of the English-East India Company

4. The ''First'' British Empire
American war of Independence
Loss of 13 Colonies of the British Empire

5. The ''Second'' British Empire
18. Century: British-East India Company (BEIC)
Competitive: The French-East India Company
Battle of Plassey, Nawab of Bengal+French allies
→ Britain emerged victorious
1757: Established as the main Force of military and political might in India
: Expansion of the reign in India
(Military might sourced by Sepoys)

6. The ''Second'' British Empire
1812
1921

7. Commonwealth of Nations
Foundation: 1931
Union of independent states
Replacement of the British Empire
Function: ''Dominions'' (Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia) wanted to be part of the Union
→ Autonomous Communities within the British Empire
Guaranteed equality and freely associated
Loyalty to the crown

8. Commonwealth of Nations

9. Commonwealth of Nations
There are now 53 states which are part of the Commonwealth
Latest member joined 2009 (Rwanda)
Together approximately: 30% of worlds population
Effect 20% of global trade
→ Global impact (Global Player)

10. Commonwealth of Nations

11. Sources
Google
Wikipedia, obvisiously ( ons)

12. Any questions?