Empires over Time
History: KS3, topic 14.1.1
Empires over Time
The concept of empire has long existed in the history of civilisation. An empire is a collection of states that are ruled over by an emperor.
The history of empires
- In the year 850, the Abbasid Caliphate ruled Iraq, Syria, Egypt, and Iran. At this time, the Moors of North Africa ruled Spain & Portugal.
- In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Mongol Empire dominated the world. It was most famously led by Genghis Khan, who is thought to have conquered more people than anyone else in history. The Mongol Empire included Mongolia, Pakistan, China, Russia, Iraq, Ukraine, and Iran.
- Spain was the first major European country to build an Empire. In 1792, Spain ruled most of Latin America, Mexico, the USA, and the Philippines.
- However, in 1920, the British Empire controlled 26% of the world's landmass.
Who had empires in the 18th and 19th Centuries?
- England, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands were the main countries that pursued owning or controlling territories overseas.
- These countries' empires and colonies often competed in trade and sometimes, militarily, capturing each others' colonies.
Why would a country want to control colonies?
- By controlling a colony, Britain could:
- Secure an international market to sell British-produced goods into.
- Secure access to raw materials at cheaper prices to help Britain's economic development.
- Spread Christianity (which was practiced more commonly two hundred years ago). If other cultures and races were viewed as inferior, then spreading British civilisation and Christianity would be desirable.
- Compete with other colonial powers and weaken their rivals in Europe.
- Increase the country's power and prestige.
Were empires created by countries, companies, or individuals?
- In the early stages of empires, individuals often led the colonial expansion.
- In 1872 in Iran, a private businessman, Baron de Reuter bought the rights to a monopoly Iran's telegraph, transport, and mining industries.
- Sir Francis Drake was an explorer and sailor who captured and stole resources from other ships and international territories. Some people think this is a form of piracy. Queen Elizabeth I received half of Drake's proceeds in exchange for her support.
- In India, the East India Company administered much of India as a private company until 1858.
Test yourself on Empires over Time
Which Empire was the largest in history?
Countries from which continent had the largest empires in the 19th Century?
Who is the most famous leader of the Mongol Empire?