The Fruit of Empire: Brexit and Britain's Colonial Past

The Fruit of Empire: Brexit and Britain's Colonial Past

Brexit, the decision for the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, has been a topic of great controversy and debate. Many have speculated about the reasons behind this drastic move, ranging from economic concerns to nationalistic sentiments. However, one aspect that often goes unaddressed is the connection between Brexit and Britain's colonial past.

It is not only an expression of nostalgia for the empire but also the fruit of empire itself. Britain's imperial history has played a significant role in shaping its attitude towards the EU and its desire for a distinct place among other member states. The pride of being first among equals, as it once was in the Commonwealth, has bred discomfort at its current position in the EU.

This discomfort can be traced back to Britain's unacknowledged and unredressed colonial past. The legacy of empire continues to haunt the nation, and it was this haunting that prophesied the outcome of the EU referendum. The desire to reclaim a sense of control and sovereignty, often cited as driving forces behind Brexit, can be seen as a response to the loss of dominance that came with the decline of the British Empire.

Furthermore, the decision to join the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1973 coincided with the closure of Britain's borders to people from its former colonies. These immigration controls were explicitly targeted at individuals who were racialized as non-white. This policy not only reflected the deep-seated racism within British society but also highlighted the tension between Britain's desire for economic integration with Europe and its reluctance to fully confront its colonial past.

In recent years, as the relationship between Britain and the EU has deteriorated, the British government has expressed a desire to strengthen economic ties with Commonwealth countries. This shift towards the Commonwealth can be seen as an attempt to rekindle the economic and cultural connections that were once the hallmark of the British Empire. However, this move also raises questions about the extent to which Britain is willing to confront the darker aspects of its colonial history.

To truly move forward, Britain must confront and acknowledge its colonial past for the brutal legacy that it is. This requires more than just economic partnerships with former colonies; it requires a genuine reckoning with the harm inflicted during the era of empire. Only by acknowledging and addressing the injustices of the past can Britain hope to build a more inclusive and equitable future.

In conclusion, Brexit is not a standalone event but rather a reflection of Britain's complex relationship with its colonial past. The desire for a distinct place in the EU and the nostalgia for empire are intertwined, and they have shaped the nation's attitude towards the European project. To move forward, Britain must confront its colonial history and work towards a more inclusive future.

Three actionable advice for Britain as it navigates this challenging path are:

1. Engage in open and honest discussions about the legacy of empire, including the harm inflicted and the ongoing repercussions.
2. Invest in education and awareness programs that highlight the contributions and perspectives of individuals from former colonies.
3. Foster partnerships and collaborations with countries and communities that were once part of the British Empire, focusing on mutual understanding and reconciliation.

By taking these steps, Britain can begin to address the deep-seated issues that have been brought to the surface by Brexit and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Only then can the fruit of empire be transformed into a catalyst for positive change.