The Transformation of British Foreign Policy in the Early 20th Century
Introduction
At the turn of the 20th century, British foreign policy underwent a significant transformation. This shift marked a complete reversal of the policies pursued in the preceding period.
Pre-Transformation Policy
Prior to this transformation, Great Britain maintained cordial relations with Germany. Russia was perceived as a threat to India due to its proximity and its control over Constantinople and the Narrows, which threatened the route from London to India. Conflicts arose between Great Britain and France as a result of France’s colonial ambitions, sometimes escalating to the brink of war.
The South African War and Its Impact
The South African War proved to be a sobering experience for British jingoists. It exposed the Empire’s vulnerabilities and humiliated its position. Britain’s enemies openly expressed their joy and even hinted at intervention. This hostile reaction prompted a reassessment of the situation.
The Radical Change
The result of this reassessment was a complete reversal of foreign policy. Peace was sought with Russia and France, while Germany was identified as the sole enemy against whom all efforts should be directed.
The National Review’s Proposal
It is noteworthy that the idea for this radical change originated from the ultra-nationalist National Review. The proposal, initially met with astonishment, was justified on the following grounds:
- Germany’s extraordinary growth and its increasing dependence on foreign food and raw materials.
- Germany’s inevitable development as a sea power, posing a threat to European states.
- Germany’s transformation from an agricultural to an industrial society, making it vulnerable to disruption of its ocean highways.
The Importance of Sea Power
The National Review emphasized the importance of sea power, arguing that”l’ocean ne comporte qu’un seul maître” (the ocean can have only one master). Great Britain had secured sovereignty over the seas in the past, and this dominance could not be relinquished without a fierce struggle.
The French Response
Despite its significance, the National Review article received limited attention in the French press. Clemenceau, editor of the weekly Le Bloc, published excerpts from the article with cautious support. Anglophobia, fueled by the Boer War, still lingered, necessitating a period of patient preparation.
The Entente with France and Russia
The National Review recognized the need for cordial relations with France and sought to establish them through Russia. A successful alliance with Russia would bring England closer to France, the only nation willing to make sacrifices for its friendship.
Edward VII and the Realization of the War Plan
The war plan outlined by the National Review was realized by Edward VII, who was hailed as”Edward the Peacemake” after his death. An agreement with Russia was reached in 1907, partitioning Persia into zones of influence. The Entente with France had been established several years earlier, with Edward VII finding an ally in the Radical Delcassé.
The Consequences of Encirclement
The successful encirclement of Germany led to the outbreak of World War I in 1914. With Germany’s defeat, its fleet destroyed, and its colonies divided, Great Britain achieved its primary war aims. However, it subsequently turned against French imperialism.