In the early 20th century, Great Britain maintained dozens of colonies throughout the world. Using rare and unique documentary footage along with actual eyewitness accounts, this program brings history alive by telling the story of this vast imperial power's decline. The three-part program highlights the modern independence movements in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and relates that, despite British attempts at modernization, many nations continue to cope with problems inherited from their colonial past.

• The Decline of the British Empire
  
• The Fall of the British Empire
  
• The Legacy of the British Empire