Description
By: G. K. Chesterton
The Crimes of England by G.K. Chesterton is a powerful and thought-provoking critique of British imperialism and colonialism. Written at a time when the British Empire was at its peak, Chesterton challenges the prevailing notions of superiority and righteousness that justified the exploitation and subjugation of other nations.
Through a series of essays, Chesterton exposes the hypocrisy and double standards of British imperialism, highlighting the injustices and atrocities committed in the name of empire. He argues that England’s crimes against other nations are not only morally reprehensible, but also counterproductive in the long run, as they ultimately undermine the ideals of freedom and justice that the empire claims to uphold.
Chesterton’s writing is sharp, insightful, and at times satirical, as he dismantles the myths and justifications that have perpetuated British colonialism. His passionate defense of justice and equality resonates with readers today, challenging us to confront the legacy of imperial power and engage in a more honest reckoning with the past.
Overall, The Crimes of England is a compelling and relevant work that exposes the dark side of empire and calls for a more ethical and accountable approach to international relations. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of imperialism and its ongoing impact on the world.
Book Description:
“Second, when telling such lies as may seem necessary to your international standing, do not tell the lies to the people who know the truth. Do not tell the Eskimos that snow is bright green; nor tell the negroes in Africa that the sun never shines in that Dark Continent. Rather tell the Eskimos that the sun never shines in Africa; and then, turning to the tropical Africans, see if they will believe that snow is green. Similarly, the course indicated for you is to slander the Russians to the English and the English to the Russians; and there are hundreds of good old reliable slanders which can still be used against both of them. There are probably still Russians who believe that every English gentleman puts a rope round his wife’s neck and sells her in Smithfield. There are certainly still Englishmen who believe that every Russian gentleman takes a rope to his wife’s back and whips her every day. But these stories, picturesque and useful as they are, have a limit to their use like everything else; and the limit consists in the fact that they are not true, and that there necessarily exists a group of persons who know they are not true. It is so with matters of fact about which you asseverate so positively to us, as if they were matters of opinion.” (Gilbert Keith Chesterton)
