Impact of the First World War

What was the impact of the First World War on the British Empire?

The First World War strengthened Britain's position in the Middle East, where it gained new territories, but it also weakened its position in India.

What impact did the First World War have on the territories of the British Empire?

During the First World War, Britain and its allies defeated the Ottoman Empire. This once great empire was divided between Britain and France, therefore expanding the British Empire. Britain gained the following territories:

• ❖ Britain gained the territory of Palestine.
• ❖ Britain also gained the newly created nation of Iraq.

How did the impact of the First World War strengthen the British Empire?

These new territories strengthened the British Empire in the following ways:

• ❖ Iraq and neighbouring Iran had huge oil reserves, which Britain now had access to.
• ❖ Palestine provided a more secure position for Britain in the Mediterranean.
• ❖ Palestine also helped Britain to control its territory in Egypt, especially the Suez Canal.

What was the impact of the First World War on the British Empire in India?

The impact of the First World War strengthened the resolve of the people in India to gain their independence from the British Empire. This was due to a number of reasons.

• ❖ Soldiers from India made a huge contribution to the 'mother' country in the war, and believed they had earned the right to self-determination.
• ❖ Nationalists in India only supported the war as they felt their loyalty would be rewarded with freedom from Britain.
• ❖ During the post-war peace process, one of the key ideas discussed was the idea of self-determination.
• ❖ David Lloyd George himself said that "we feel that government with the consent of the government must be the basis of any territorial settlement in this war".

What effect did the First World War have on the British Empire in India?

World War I resulted in deteriorating relations between the mother country and the colony. Indians became angry that laws introduced to keep control during the war weren't removed. Nationalists believed this was to weaken the movement for independence.

In what way was the impact of the First World War significant for the British Empire?

The First World War was significant in the history of the British Empire, as it marked a turning point in the decline of empire. The people of the British colonies had developed a thirst for independence that would not go away.