At its peak, in the 1930s, the second British Empire included more than a quarter of the world's population in its dominions, colonies, protectorates and mandates on all six continents. It was the largest empire in the history of the world. It was contiguous, like the great empires before it, but was held together by the Royal Navy, by the English language and British institutions, and by commercial interests. Some critics would say, by exploitation and oppression. By the end of the century the imperial glory had faded and gone, but its legacy remains. This course examines the story of the two British empires, the first the American Empire and the second global empire and their legacy.

Independent Study Discussion Courses are for study by groups without a tutor, so there is no need to write reports. These courses were written by tutors who have now since retired from the Discussion Group Program. Some courses were written a number of years ago, and therefore contain references to events which are now more historical than current, however, all are entertaining, well-produced and worthwhile.

COURSE INFORMATION

Course Author: Douglas Golding

Course Code: D203

Supplied Material: Course Booklet

Units & Pricing: 6 units / $48 per person

GETTING STARTED

Start your Group: Anyone can start a Discussion Group – seek out some like-minded friends or put up a notice in your local library, bookshop or workplace. Please note a minimum of 6 people is required to start a new discussion group.

Arrange the Meetings: New groups need to decide where and when to meet, and for how long – whatever best suits members' particular situations.

Run your Group: Choose a secretary to liaise with WEA and your tutor, a Discussion Leader to chair meetings, a reporter to take discussion notes to send to your tutor, and maybe a librarian to look after the books.

Start the Course: Contact WEA Sydney to enrol. Bookings can be made for one year, divided into two terms – Term 1 commences in February, Term 2 in July (Groups may make forward bookings for popular choices). Please indicate in what order your Group wishes to study the courses, if more than one course is booked.