>>212815233 (OP)>the most benevolent and civilized power in historyThey were not. Thing is, the British "Empire" was not by design, such as the Spanish or Roman Empires etc. The Brits did not set out to "conquer land". They merely wanted to make money. Being an island, they use ships to trade. Sailing ships need replenishment bases and defended ports, so the Brits established small outposts dotted around the globe. These outposts turn into colonies. Meanwhile, uncooperative natives impede their pursuit of money. So, they take sides in local conflict and or bribe the rulers to take British "Advisors". These Advisors gradually take power away from local rulers and eventually become Colonial Governors. As you have noticed, the Brits generally avoid military conquests and mainly use their military as police. In fact, the Brits fight other European powers more than local natives. After gaining control of native kingdoms or regions, the Brits implement education to create a class of literate native clerks and functionaries to staff the offices and banks. They also build roads, rail and ports to siphon all the raw material and goods back to Britain. This Mercantile mindset made them seem " benevolent" when compared to the say, the Spanish or French Empires.