The British Empire was the largest empire in history, and at its peak, it ruled over a significant portion of the world. The exact number of countries or territories under British rule varied over time, but it is estimated that Britain controlled around 56 sovereign states and numerous colonies, protectorates, and dependencies.
At its height in the early 20th century, the British Empire covered approximately 24% of the Earth’s land area and governed around 23% of the world’s population. This vast empire included regions in Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. Some of the most notable countries that were part of the British Empire include India, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and Egypt.
The British Empire began to decline after World War II, as many countries gained independence through decolonization. By the late 20th century, most of the former colonies had become independent nations, and the British Empire was largely dissolved. Today, the legacy of the British Empire is still evident in the form of the Commonwealth of Nations, which includes many former colonies that maintain a voluntary association with Britain.