Splendid Isolation Policy of Britain

Britain's "Splendid Isolation" (1900)

• Britain adopted a policy of "splendid isolation" to stay out of European conflicts and avoid being dragged into wars that didn't concern them.
• Isolation was seen as freedom due to Britain's geographical advantage of being an island, the dominance of the Royal Navy, and the balance of power on the Continent.
• However, this policy led to a lack of friends and alliances, resulting in conflicts with Germany, France, and Russia over interests in the Pacific.

The Boer War (1899-1902)

• The Boer War exposed significant weaknesses in the British military, including incompetent leadership, inaccurate maps, and poor infrastructure.
• British forces suffered numerous defeats, highlighting the inefficiencies and lack of preparedness within the military.

Britain in 1914-1918

• During World War I, Britain became the ally and protector of France against the Germans.
• Britain entered the war in 1914 to support France and Belgium against the German invasion.

Into Modern History

• France supported the Americans in their War of Independence (1775-1783) against British rule.
• Britain supported Europe in the attempt to limit Napoleon's control, after he proclaimed himself emperor and planned to conquer Europe and expand French colonies overseas.
• Britain played a crucial role in the eventual defeat of Napoleon, contributing significantly to two major battles: the Battle of Trafalgar and the Battle of Waterloo.

The Battle of Trafalgar (1805)

• The British Royal Navy won the Battle of Trafalgar, led by Admiral Nelson, who used innovative strategies to defeat the French and Spanish fleets.
• The battle was a significant naval victory for the British.

The Battle of Waterloo (1815)

• Britain allied with Prussia, and defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo, led by General Wellington.
• The battle ended Napoleon's rule and his dream to dominate Europe.
• Napoleon was exiled to Saint Helena, where he died in 1821.

The Hundred Years' War (1337-1453)

• The Hundred Years' War was a series of conflicts waged between England and France.
• Famous battles during this period include the Battle of Crécy (1346) and the Battle of Agincourt (1415).
• The English won these battles, often attributed to their effective use of the longbow.
• Henry V was a heroic figure of this war, leading the English to significant victories.
• Joan of Arc was a French heroine who led the French in the war but was considered a witch by the English and was burnt at the stake in 1431.
• England lost control over French territories progressively until the 15th century, but maintained control over the city of Calais as a base for military and trade operations.