Ten Minute History - The Late British Empire (Short Documentary)

Australia was established as a penal colony by Britain in 1788, following the arrival of the first convicts. This marked the beginning of British colonial presence in the region.

The Napoleonic Wars were a British victory, leading to the weakening of Britain's imperial rival. The period following the wars, known as the Pax Britannica, was characterized by British dominance and peace.

Britain expanded its informal empire into China through the opium trade and also had concerns about Russian influence in Persia, leading to military interventions and conflicts.

The Indian independence movements, including the rebellion against the East India Company, the Sepoy Mutiny, and the eventual dissolution of the East India Company, played a significant role in the end of British rule in India.

Britain engaged in imperialism in Africa, facing resistance from indigenous populations such as the Zulus and Boers. The division of Africa between European powers and the response to imperialism are discussed.

Movements for independence in Kenya, notably the Mau Mau uprising, and in India led to the eventual independence of both countries from British colonial rule.

The legacy of the British Empire is reflected in modern-day structures such as driving on the left side of the road, the presence of the British monarch in certain countries, and varying opinions on the impact of imperialism.