A history lesson about Britain
It was only a matter of time before the worldwide outpouring of grief and appreciation for Queen Elizabeth II would be followed by those who would like to characterize her as just the latest in a long line of tyrannical monarchs responsible for the twin evils of slavery and colonialism. Certainly Britain was much involved in the slave trade, however it was outlawed on British ships in 1807 and was abolished throughout the British Empire in 1833.
Colonialism had many negative aspects, however the concept of Pax Britannica brought peace and order to lands that had hitherto experienced only the anarchy of continuously warring tribes and factions. It also created a framework of laws, and in many cases, a parliamentary system of democracy.
Most British colonies became independent by 1960, just eight years into Elizabeth’s 70-year reign. The majority of those states elected to maintain their relationship with Great Britain by becoming members of the 56-member British Commonwealth, which Elizabeth, as the head, spent her lifetime supporting.
Hopefully history will judge Elizabeth’s reign to have been a bridge between the colonial past and a bright future for previously lesser-developed nations.
Philip Mein, East Dallas
Mourn first; question later
During Queen Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign, inevitably there were disparate events of broad agreement and wide displeasure. But an indomitable woman who was a rock of both stability and flexibility deserves…
