The Impact of the British Empire on International Relations: 1857-1965
The assertion that the British Empire's impact on international relations was more profound between 1857 and 1914 than between 1915 and 1965 is a complex one. While the period from 1857 to 1914 witnessed a peak in British imperial power and influence, arguing that this period eclipsed the empire's impact in the latter half of the 20th century presents a challenging argument. This essay will explore both sides of this debate by examining the empire’s impact on international relations across a range of historical moments.

The Empire's Influence in the 19th Century: 1857-1914
The period between 1857 and 1914 marked a zenith in British imperial influence. The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, though a rebellion against British rule, actually solidified British control over India, the "jewel in the crown," and underscored the empire's global power. This period witnessed significant territorial expansion in Africa, leading to conflicts like the Boer Wars, which dramatically impacted international relations.
Moreover, the British Empire's presence in North Africa fueled rivalry with France, particularly over control of Egypt, leading to the Fashoda Incident of 1898. The scramble for Africa and the establishment of colonies across the continent contributed to a complex web of alliances and rivalries that ultimately contributed to the outbreak of World War I.
The Congress of Berlin in 1878, where European powers sought to redraw the map of the Balkans, also saw British influence shaping international relations. The Empire's commitment to defending its interests in India led to a strained relationship with Russia, culminating in the Great Game, a period of intense geopolitical competition in Central Asia. Additionally, the Anglo-Japanese Treaty of 1902, forged to counter Russian expansion in the Far East, demonstrated the empire's capacity to forge alliances outside Europe, further solidifying its global reach.

The Empire's Post-War Influence: 1915-1965
While the period after 1914 saw the decline of the British Empire, arguing that its impact on international relations was less significant overlooks the crucial role it played in shaping the post-war world. The Treaty of Versailles, which formally ended World War I, was heavily influenced by British imperial interests, particularly in the Middle East, where the empire sought to control vital waterways and oil resources. The empire’s desire to safeguard its colonial holdings also played a crucial role in its negotiation with French and German ambitions.
The British Empire's influence extended beyond Europe. The rise of Imperial Japan, a rival to British power in Asia, further illustrates its impact on international relations. The empire's response to Japan's growing influence, particularly in China, contributed to the growing tensions between the two nations, ultimately leading to the Second World War.
The Suez Crisis of 1956, triggered by Britain's attempt to maintain control over the Suez Canal, demonstrated the waning imperial power, revealing the empire's vulnerability to new geopolitical forces. The Anglo-American partnership forged in this crisis, however, signaled the empire's willingness to adapt to changing realities, indicating a shift toward closer relations with the United States.

The Empire's Legacy in the Cold War and Beyond
The British Empire's impact on international relations was not limited to the pre-war period. The empire's legacy played a crucial role in shaping the Cold War geopolitical landscape. While the United States and the Soviet Union emerged as the dominant superpowers, the British Empire's influence in the Commonwealth fostered a network of alliances that helped shape the Cold War's trajectory.
Furthermore, the process of decolonization, which began after World War II and continued into the 1960s, significantly impacted Britain's relations with both Europe and the United States. The pursuit of independence by former colonies led to the formation of new nations and the rise of a non-aligned movement, challenging the existing power structures and shifting the balance of international power.
Conclusion
While the British Empire's impact on international relations was undoubtedly profound during the period between 1857 and 1914, it is challenging to argue that this era eclipsed the empire's influence in the latter half of the 20th century. The empire's legacy continued to shape international relations, from its role in the Treaty of Versailles to its impact on the Cold War and the rise of new nations. The empire's influence was not solely confined to territorial control; it shaped geopolitical alliances, international law, and the very idea of national self-determination. Ultimately, the British Empire's impact on international relations was a complex and enduring phenomenon, with its influence felt long after its formal dissolution.