Britain 1914 CE

What is happening in Britain in 1914CE

Over the past four decades, the British empire has expanded hugely, particularly in Africa. Nearer home, Britain adopted a policy of isolationism towards her European neighbours for many years, but rising tensions on the continent forced her to ally herself with France and Russia against Germany and Austria. She became involved in a dramatic armaments race with Germany, and the two powers built up huge fleets facing one another across the North Sea. Now, these tensions in Europe, which have led to German armies invading Belgium, have forced Britain into the World War 1 (August 1914).

At home, recent years have seen further political and social reform. The House of Commons has become the pre-eminent seat of legislation, trade unions have been legalized, more citizens have become eligible to vote, elementary education has become freely available, conditions at work have continued to be improved and the first old age pensions have been introduced. However, there is growing discontent with British rule in Ireland, and women throughout Britain are still excluded from having the vote.

Next map, Britain in 1960