(click image to enlarge)
Between 24 June and 8 July 1897 a conference was convened in London between the Secretary of State for the Colonies, Joseph Chamberlain, and the 11 self-governing colonies of the British Empire. The Conference was arranged on the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, with the intention to draw the colonies into closer co-operation with the United Kingdom. During the Conference, the Prime Minister Lord Salisbury took a cautious, diplomatic approach, which contrasted with the more enthusiastic imperial agenda pushed by Chamberlain, who proposed the creation of a permanent Imperial Council. Salisbury had been known for his diplomatic and pragmatic approach to foreign policy, and he considered Chamberlain’s idealistic vision of imperial federation impractical. The differing approaches of the two men highlighted a divergence in British policy towards the empire. Lord Salisbury’s more cautious approach ultimately prevailed over Chamberlain’s push for a more integrated empire, as colonial leaders rejected his proposals due to fears of losing their autonomy.
In the present cartoon, as the stump’s are drawn, signaling the end of a day’s play at cricket, Lord Salisbury expresses satisfaction at the civil resolution of the Conference, whilst Chamberlain is shown as frustrated at his Prime Minister’s lack of support.
8 & 10 Ryder Street, St James’s, London SW1Y 6QB
gallery@chrisbeetles.com
020 7839 7551
© Chris Beetles Ltd 2025 | Accessibility | Privacy | Sitemap
