Vintage illustration antique world map featuring the British Empire, 1886, marked in the traditional colour for imperial British dominions on maps. The text in the top banners reads Freedom, Fraternity, Federation and the map is surrounded by people and animals representing the international diversity of the globe. Artist: Walter Crane.

The British Empire comprised the dominions, colonies, protectorates, mandates and other territories ruled or administered by the United Kingdom. It originated with the overseas colonies and trading posts established by England in the late 16th and early 17th centuries and at its height, it was the largest empire in history.