The end of the British Empire in the 20th century
I can recall that in the latter half of the 20th century the British Empire began to collapse with many nations being granted independence.
The end of the British Empire in the 20th century
I can recall that in the latter half of the 20th century the British Empire began to collapse with many nations being granted independence.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- After WW2, the British Empire began to collapse in the face of nationalist and independence movements.
- India was granted independence in 1947 following the violent partition of India and Pakistan.
- In 1956, President Nasser of Egypt took control of the Suez Canal which resulted in a failed invasion from Britain.
- In 1957, Kwame Nkrumah led the successful campaign for Ghanaian independence.
- After a brutal and violent suppression of the Mau Mau Rebellion, Kenya was granted independence in 1963.
Keywords
Decolonisation - the process by which colonies of the British Empire gradually achieved independence from Britain during the course of the 20th century
Nationalist - a person who wants their country to be politically independent
Partition - to divide into parts
Rebellion - an act of rising up against rulers or authority
Common misconception
Decolonisation happened everywhere at once.
Decolonisation happened in different places at different points throughout the 20th century, for reasons specific to each area's context.
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: The end of the British Empire in the 20th century, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 history lesson on: The end of the British Empire in the 20th century, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 history lessons from the Migration: understanding post-WW2 migrant experiences 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 violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
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