Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World

Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World (2003)

EndedDocumentary show

How did Britain come to rule the world? asks Niall Ferguson in Empire. What would today's world be like now if it hadn't? Could such an organisation – run by, according to Winston Churchill, 'the greedy trader, the inopportune missionary, the ambitious soldier and the lying spectator' – ever have been a force for good?

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Scheduleevery Saturday (50 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E06Empire for SaleFeb. 8, 2003
S01E05Maxim ForceFeb. 1, 2003
S01E04Heaven's BreedJan. 25, 2003
S01E03The MissionJan. 18, 2003
S01E02White PlagueJan. 11, 2003
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' premiere?

'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' premiered on March 23, 2003.

Who narrated the TV show?

The TV show was narrated by Niall Ferguson.

What was the main focus of 'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World'?

The main focus of the show was to explore the impact of the British Empire on the modern world.

How many episodes were there in the first season of 'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World'?

The first season of 'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' consisted of five episodes.

Which countries were featured in the TV show?

The TV show featured countries such as India, China, Egypt, and the United States.

Who were some of the key figures discussed in the show?

Key figures discussed in 'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' included Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mao Zedong.

How did the British Empire shape the global economy?

The British Empire played a significant role in shaping the global economy through trade and colonization.

What were some of the positive impacts of the British Empire?

Some of the positive impacts of the British Empire included the spread of the English language, modern infrastructure, and the introduction of democratic principles.

How did the British Empire impact the cultures of colonized nations?

The British Empire had a profound influence on the cultures of colonized nations, leading to the adoption of British customs, language, and legal systems.

What were some of the negative consequences of the British Empire?

Some of the negative consequences of the British Empire included exploitation of resources, cultural imperialism, and the suppression of indigenous populations.

How did the TV show present different perspectives on the British Empire?

'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' presented a range of perspectives, including both critics and defenders of the British Empire.

What role did technology play in the expansion of the British Empire?

Technology, such as steamships and telegraphs, played a crucial role in the expansion of the British Empire, enabling faster communication and transportation.

How did the British Empire impact the political systems of colonized nations?

The British Empire introduced new political systems to colonized nations, such as parliamentary democracy, which had a lasting impact on their governance.

How did the TV show explore the legacy of the British Empire?

'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' examined the ongoing impact and legacy of the British Empire, both positive and negative, on the nations it colonized.

What were some of the major events discussed in the show?

Some of the major events discussed in 'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' included the Opium Wars, the Indian Rebellion of 1857, and the Scramble for Africa.

How did the TV show portray the relationship between the British Empire and its colonies?

'Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World' depicted the complex and often contentious relationship between the British Empire and its colonies, exploring themes of power, exploitation, and resistance.

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