By 1783 Britain had a large empire, with colonies in America and the West Indies. This 'first British Empire' came to end after the American Revolution. However, in the 19th century, the British built a second worldwide empire, based on British sea-power, India, and huge conquests in Africa. read more
Probably as good an answer as any is Lord Charles Howard and Sir Francis Drake. They faced down and defeated the “invincible armada” of Phillip II of Spain, (the pre-eminent power of the day), and defeated it. This probably started the British climb to Empire. read more
By 1913, the British Empire held sway over 412 million people, 23% of the world population at the time, and by 1920, it covered 35,500,000 km 2 (13,700,000 sq mi), 24% of the Earth's total land area. As a result, its political, legal, linguistic and cultural legacy is widespread. read more
By 1783 Britain had a large empire, with colonies in America and the West Indies. This 'first British Empire' came to end after the American Revolution. However, in the 19th century, the British built a second worldwide empire, based on British sea-power, India, and huge conquests in Africa. read more