Final answer:
The British Empire in 1900 encompassed extensive territories, notably in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific, with India being a central and lucrative colony. The Scramble for Africa exemplified British imperialism, and British dominance was reinforced by a powerful Royal Navy, fostering global trade and the spread of the Industrial Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
By analyzing a map of the British Empire in 1900, we can deduce that the British had a vast and expansive empire, controlling territories in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. This reflects the extent of British imperialism and the global reach of its power at the turn of the 20th century. The different colors on the map represent various aspects of British control, including colonies, dominions, and spheres of influence. The map shows that the British Empire held lands in warm and tropical areas, contrary to the idea that they preferred to settle in northern areas.
India served as the most important and lucrative part of the British Empire, highlighting the imperial economic model where colonies supplied raw materials, while serving as markets for British manufactured goods. The Scramble for Africa marked the peak of new imperialism with European powers, including Britain, rapidly claiming African territories. The powerful British Royal Navy enabled trade protection and imperial expansion.
By the end of the 19th century, geopolitical shifts and the rise of other nations such as Germany and the United States began to challenge British supremacy. However, during its height, the British Empire embraced a policy of free markets which helped spur the Industrial Revolution and global economic growth, facilitating the spread of British influence and control.