The Costs and Benefits of British Imperialism 1846-1914
Author(s)
O’Brien, Patrick
Abstract
The question of whether the vast and complex British Empire brought gains to the majority of British people is examined. The material costs and benefits for British society as a whole are considered. The fiscal burden for defense and other imperial commitments weighed heavily on British citizens and their economy. This burden was unequally distributed among domestic taxpayers and between metropolis and empire. Overall, it is argued that the massive public expenditures involved were not sufficient or necessary for the growth of the British economy between 1846-1914. The empire was a costly alternative to social reform and structural changes within the domestic economy.
