The Decline and Fall of the British Empire

The decline of the British Empire happened over the 20th century as colonies gained independence, driven by economic shifts, changing global power dynamics, and a move toward self-rule. After World War II, Britain’s economy weakened, making it harder to maintain distant colonies. Anti-colonial movements grew stronger, demanding independence, and many colonies gradually gained self-governance or independence, especially in Asia and Africa. This process reduced Britain's imperial reach but also reflected a shift towards a more interconnected world where former colonies became independent nations, transforming Britain from a global empire into a nation focused more on its own interests.