How did the imperialist system work for Great Britain?

Great Britain believed in the concept of imperialism. They wanted to control land beyond their borders so they could benefit economically, politically, and militarily.

When Great Britain established colonies, they wanted to profit from having these colonies. Great Britain wanted to use the resources found in their colonies to make products in their factories. They knew they could get the resources cheaper from their colonies than they could by purchasing them from other countries. The British would pass a series of laws requiring their colonies to buy certain products from Great Britain. These laws also required products to be transported on British ships. These laws would help the British benefit economically from having their colonies.

By controlling lands in different areas of the world, Great Britain would benefit politically and militarily. Great Britain would have control of areas around the world. This enhanced their status as a world power. They could also use these colonies as military bases if needed during times of war. The colonies also allowed the British to protect their world trade. British ships could stop and refuel and resupply in the ports of their colonies.

The British colonies served many purposes for Great Britain. The development of an imperialistic system was designed to benefit the British in many ways.