Withdrawal from Empire: Britain's Decolonization of Egypt, Aden, and Kenya in the Mid-Twentieth Century
Abstract
Powerful nations often find themselves physically and geographically embroiled in the affairs of other nations in the form of empires, protectorate treaties, military occupations, and peacekeeping and stability operations. Generally speaking, they all eventually withdraw these forces and empower the sovereign nation in self-governance. "Withdrawal from Empire" provides lessons from three case studies of how Great Britain withdrew forces and superintendence from Egypt, Aden and Kenya during the End of Empire era in the mid-Twentieth Century. After outlining several popular theories of why Britain elected to (or was forced to) withdraw from these colonies, the cases are addressed individually. To provide background and situational context to the studies, the case studies begin with a narrative history of Britain's incursions into the specific lands on Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The narrative traces Britain's influence in these nations and her eventual reasons and methods of withdrawal. An analysis of the plans, methods and post-withdrawal status of the new independent nations and their relationship with Britain leads to some basic lessons on how other nations should consider withdrawing forces from occupied territories. While the analysis is uses four comparison criteria it is primarily focused on governance, economics, and security issues. Some examples of the lessons learned involve whether and how occupying nations should establish a timeline for withdrawal, how to train and educate the new or newly independent nation in governance, and the utility of leaving behind some forces or advisors to continue to guide the new nation or participate in its governance, economy or security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA510241
Entities
People
- Brian S. Olson
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College