Great Britain’s Colonial Empire 英國的殖民帝國

Explore the full postal history of the British Empire, one of the largest and most influential empires in history, with vast holdings across Asia and Africa. British presence in Asia began with the East India Company in the 1700s, leading to direct control over India from 1858 to 1947. Key territories included Burma, Ceylon, Malaya, and Hong Kong—ceded in 1842 and returned to China in 1997. Each region developed its own colonial postal systems, issuing stamps that reflected imperial authority and local identity. In Africa, Britain governed Egypt (from 1882), South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and others, with most colonies gaining independence during the 1950s and 60s. British stamps, printed by firms like De La Rue in London, played a key role in linking distant colonies and projecting British power. This collection highlights the global reach of Britain’s empire and its enduring postal legacy.