Is the assertion that Britain was "Splendidly Isolated" in the latter years of the 19th Century, true?
Is the assertion that Britain was "Splendidly Isolated" in the latter years of the 19th Century, true?
What changes occurred in this policy, in the early 20th century? Give reason.
The term "Splendid Isolation" was not entirely true, nor was it entirely false. Britain was of course isolated, but this isolation that Britain was going through was not splendid. It left Britain friendless, and without allies in Europe.
Britain had to avoid war, as a war would inevitably lead to the collapse of the British Empire. One example to show this was the Venezuelan boarder dispute in 1895, between British Guiana and Venezuela. The Venezuelans ended up appealing to the United States to intervene, The president of the US responded with the "Monroe Doctrine" which basically meant that since the problem was with in the influence of America, America should deal with the dispute. Britain was annoyed and agitated at this, as it was a clear challenge to Britain, as it meant that a third party had to take part in the settlement of this problem. Salisbury thought that in time it would be forgotten, however after four months Lord Salisbury responded refusing to accept American intervention. President Cleveland strongly opposed this act, the possibility of war breaking out was high. Cabinet insisted that Salisbury back down, eventually Salisbury was overruled by the cabinet. War was therefore avoided.
What changes occurred in this policy, in the early 20th century? Give reason.
The term "Splendid Isolation" was not entirely true, nor was it entirely false. Britain was of course isolated, but this isolation that Britain was going through was not splendid. It left Britain friendless, and without allies in Europe.
Britain had to avoid war, as a war would inevitably lead to the collapse of the British Empire. One example to show this was the Venezuelan boarder dispute in 1895, between British Guiana and Venezuela. The Venezuelans ended up appealing to the United States to intervene, The president of the US responded with the "Monroe Doctrine" which basically meant that since the problem was with in the influence of America, America should deal with the dispute. Britain was annoyed and agitated at this, as it was a clear challenge to Britain, as it meant that a third party had to take part in the settlement of this problem. Salisbury thought that in time it would be forgotten, however after four months Lord Salisbury responded refusing to accept American intervention. President Cleveland strongly opposed this act, the possibility of war breaking out was high. Cabinet insisted that Salisbury back down, eventually Salisbury was overruled by the cabinet. War was therefore avoided.