当代英国概况unit17.ppt

Chapter 17 Britain and the World December, 2007 Wang Yi Britain and the World Britain’s primary overseas interests lay in three areas: Europe The Empire or Commonwealth The special relationship with the USA The British Empire Map on page 273 shows the extent of the Empire in 1919. These countries were the major markets for British exports and a source of cheap raw materials and food. Late C19 Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and Ireland given Dominion status – internal self government and much freedom in their foreign relations. 1947 India given independence. 1950’s more of the colonies in the Caribbean and Africa gained independence. The Commonwealth Bears no resemblance to the Empire of the past. Modern Commonwealth is a voluntary free association of 54 independent sovereign states each responsible for its own policies but co-operating together in their common interests. 32 members of the Commonwealth are republics, e.g. India 17 are monarchies with Queen Elizabeth II as Head of State, e.g. Australia, Canada 5 have national monarchs, e.g. Fiji Commonwealth Today The former colonies share many things in common English as the official language of government English law Many people have British relatives, particularly in New Zealand, Australia, Canada and South Africa, where Britain is still referred to as the “mother country.” Until 1960’s all commonwealth citizens were free to enter the UK. Although there are restrictions now, the number entering the UK is on the increase. Long history of trade and economic links A tradition of professional and academic links with many similar educational systems Relations with Europe As part of Europe, Britain has always been influenced by, and had an influence on, other European countries. Culturally – there is a long common cultural heritage between many European countries. Many languages derive from the same background; religions are shared and there has been much inter-marriage including within the Royal fami