Simonenko E. S.

Canada in the strategic defense plans of the British Empire (last third of the 19th century) P. 81 –87.

UDC 327(71:410)«18»

DOI 10.37724/RSU.2023.78.1.008

Abstract. The article studies the place and role of the Dominion of Canada in the strategic plans for the defense of the British Empire. The chronological framework covers the last three decades of the 19th century. Having obtained the political status of a dominion within the empire in 1867, Canada came to be regarded by Great Britain as the most important strategic ally. We analyze the ways in which British conservatives and liberals saw the role of colonies in the system of collective security of the British Empire are analyzed. Another area of study is the activities of the British government bodies (the Colonial Office and the Admiralty) in developing strategic plans for integration of Canada into the imperial defense, as well as their recommendations. We assess Canada’s readiness to participate in British strategic defense, as well as the extent to which this was implemented. We describe the functions of Canadian naval bases Halifax and Escuymolt in the imperial system of security. By the end of the 19th century, the principle of reciprocity, which meant division of responsibility between the mother country and the colonies, became the core of British policy in the area of defense. Great Britain was to protect ocean routes and imperial trade, while the colonies were to maintain their own territorial security. In case of danger, the mother country was obliged to transfer troops to protect the colonies, and these, in turn, had to participate in any wars waged by the Empire. The conclusion shows that Canada was not prepared for such changes, agreeing to partial defense of its territory through organizing local armed forces, as well as maintenance of imperial naval bases.

 

Keywords: British Empire, Canadian history, British dominions, imperial defense, Halifax, Esquimalt.

 

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