Knowledge organiser - British Empire - Year 6

The British Empire, a term that refers to an extensive group of states or countries, was once ruled by a single monarch, and at its zenith, it was commonly said that the 'empire on which the sun never sets' due to its vast global spread. The 'mother country', a term used to denote the United Kingdom, was the central power from which the empire was governed. This empire played a significant role in the historical narrative of Britain, particularly during the era when countries and areas were under the full or partial political control of the UK and were inhabited by settlers, a system referred to as 'colony'. The term 'Commonwealth' is now used to describe an international association comprising the UK, its dependencies, and several countries that were once part of the British Empire.

In Year 6, students delve into the significance of the British Empire's creation, aiming to understand the concept of empire and the pivotal role of the voyages of discovery in elevating Britain's status in the world. They explore the extent of the empire's reach and the profound impact Britain had on various parts of the globe. Additionally, the curriculum covers the historical context of slavery and its association with the early formation of the empire. A key part of learning is to comprehend the reasons behind the dissolution of the British Empire, transitioning from a vast imperial power to a modern nation with different international relationships, including those within the Commonwealth.