Comparing decolonisation across the former British Empire
I can compare and contrast different British colonies to explain how experiences of decolonisation varied considerably.
Comparing decolonisation across the former British Empire
I can compare and contrast different British colonies to explain how experiences of decolonisation varied considerably.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The British Empire experienced significant decolonisation after the Second World War.
- Although decolonisation was complex and experiences varied considerably, it was a peaceful process in many places.
- Decolonisation was more likely to involve violence in the colonies that were the most valuable to Britain.
- Decolonisation in Ireland, India and Palestine was a violent process involving controversial partition processes.
- British actions were directly or indirectly responsible for much of the violence that took place during decolonisation.
Keywords
Decolonisation - the process by which colonies ruled by an empire achieve independence
Nationalist - someone who strongly believes in and supports their own country, placing its interests above those of other nations
Partition - to divide into parts
Constitution - the basic principles or laws which govern a nation state
Reform - a change introduced to improve something, often a system or law
Common misconception
The British Empire was different from other European empires because Britain willingly relinquished control of its colonies and decolonisation was mostly a peaceful process.
While it was a peaceful process in some British colonies, decolonisation involved significant violence in other colonies. Even in colonies where decolonisation was relatively peaceful there was some violence (e.g., Accra Riots in the Gold Coast).
To help you plan your year 9 history lesson on: Comparing decolonisation across the former British Empire, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 history lesson on: Comparing decolonisation across the former British Empire, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 3 history lessons from the Decolonisation: how similar was decolonisation throughout the British Empire? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
- Depiction or discussion of sexual violence
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Adult supervision required
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