Commonwealth History and Structure

The video discusses Barbados becoming a republic, ending its colonial ties with the British monarchy while remaining in the Commonwealth. It explores the history of the British Empire, its decolonization, and the transformation into the Commonwealth of Nations. The video highlights the role of the monarchy in maintaining ties with former colonies and the current state of the Commonwealth, emphasizing its global influence and the potential for former colonies to lead the organization.

What significant change did Barbados undergo on November 30th, 2021?

• It became a member of the European Union.

• It declared independence from the United States.

• It became the world's newest republic.

• It joined the United Nations.

What was the role of Prince Charles during Barbados' transition to a republic?

• He became the new head of state for Barbados.

• He reaffirmed the unchanged ties with the Commonwealth.

• He was absent from the ceremony.

• He declared Barbados a new British colony.

What was the extent of the British Empire's control in 1926?

• It controlled nearly a quarter of the world's population.

• It had no colonies left.

• It ruled over half of the world's population.

• It was limited to the British Isles.

What was the British Commonwealth initially composed of?

• Only African nations.

• Former white settler colonies like Australia and Canada.

• Countries from the Middle East.

• Only European countries.

How did the British Empire respond to the rise of independence movements post-WWII?

• By focusing on maintaining relevance through the Commonwealth.

• By forming new colonies in Asia.

• By increasing military presence in colonies.

• By granting immediate independence to all colonies.

What was the new name given to the British Commonwealth?

• The United Nations.

• The European Union.

• The British Empire.

• The Commonwealth of Nations.

What is a significant feature of the modern Commonwealth?

• It has legal obligations for all members.

• It is a club with no legal obligations among members.

• It only includes countries with monarchies.

• It excludes former British colonies.

Who can lead the Commonwealth?

• Only former British colonies.

• Only countries from Europe.

• Any member country.

• Only the British monarch.

What impact did Queen Elizabeth II have on the Commonwealth?

• She was largely unpopular among member nations.

• She dissolved the Commonwealth.

• She united the Commonwealth and deflected from Britain's colonial past.

• She restricted membership to European countries.

What is a current debate regarding the Commonwealth?

• The role of the monarchy within the Commonwealth.

• Whether to expand it to include the United States.

• Whether to dissolve it entirely.

• The inclusion of only Asian countries.