Final answer:
Britain became a formidable sea power in the 19th century due to its victory over Napoleon, a dominant Royal Navy that facilitated global trade under Pax Britannica, and the Industrial Revolution. Natural resources like coal and iron ore were also instrumental to its supremacy. However, the rise of other powers and the decline of the Pax Britannica signified the beginning of the end for British naval dominance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Britain's advancement into a leading sea power and the creation of its vast empire can be attributed to several factors. During the 19th century, after defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo, Britain faced little opposition and dominated the seas, enabling the Royal Navy to control oceanic trade routes. The navy's might was so extensive it could enforce the end of the slave trade and greatly reduce piracy. This period, known as the Pax Britannica, meant Britain could facilitate global trade under its protection and serve as the arbitrator of international disputes.Contributing economically, the Industrial Revolution saw Britain develop shipping lines, trade policies with steamships, and the pioneering of international communication with telegraph cables. These advancements allowed for greater efficiency and integration within the empire's vast territories. However, the loss of the American colonies and the rise of other industrialized nations like Germany and the USA marked the beginning of Britain's decline as an unrivaled naval power.Additionally, natural resources played a crucial role. Britain's abundant coal and iron ore were pivotal resources for industrialization, fueling the steam engines and enabling large-scale iron smelting. With the British navy protecting its empire and trade routes, Great Britain could exert influence over its colonies, which became sources of raw materials and markets for industrially produced goods. Nevertheless, the eventual distribution of industrial capabilities globally and political shifts led to changes in the balance of naval powers.