Crowns and Colonies

Crowns and Colonies explores the intriguing connections between monarchy and colonialism, spanning from old regime empires to the modern Commonwealth. Queen Victoria, who also bore the title of Empress of India, had a genuine interest in the British Empire; however, she was not alone as other European monarchs also ruled over possessions 'beyond the seas'.

This collection of original essays examines the multifaceted relationship between the crown and colonial governance. It includes case studies from Britain, France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Italy. The essays delve into constitutional questions about the role of the crown in overseas empires, the pomp and pageantry that accompanied the monarchy's presence in the colonies, and the fate of indigenous sovereigns under European colonial control.

Crowns and Colonies offers insightful perspectives on regions such as North America, Asia, Africa, and Australasia. It provides fresh viewpoints on colonial history, the governance of empire, and the transnational history of monarchies in modern Europe.