Empire

At one time, the sun never set on the British Empire. This five-part BBC documentary critically explores the influence Britain once wielded and continues to exercise. "A Taste of Power" examines how Britain learned the art of imperial rule in India, where local rulers and soldiers maintained control over indigenous populations. "Making Ourselves at Home" recounts how the British imposed aspects of their social customs on the colonies to re-create English life abroad. It also looks at relations between rulers and subjects. "Playing the Game" shows how the imperial experience produced the image of the British hero, searching for adventure but playing by the rules of conduct taught in public schools. This stands in sharp contrast to the brutal nature of English rule. "Making a Fortune" illustrates how trade, including slavery and other forms of human exploitation, brought great wealth to Britain. "Doing Good" contrasts British attempts to help its subjects with maintaining the belief it possessed a divine right to rule. VERDICT This film is beautifully shot in India, Africa, Canada, China, and other parts of the former empire. BBC broadcaster Jeremy Paxman is an excellent host. Viewers with an interest in history and culture will enjoy this epic program.-Stephen L. Hupp, West Virginia Univ. Parkersburg Lib. © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.