Decolonisation and joining the EEC
Study note
After the Second World War, many countries that had been part of the British Empire gained their independence, a process known as decolonisation. In 1947, India, Pakistan and other colonies became independent. This date, 1947, is the one to remember for Indian and Pakistani independence.
Britain's role in the wider world also changed. In 1973 the United Kingdom joined the European Economic Community, often shortened to the EEC, which later developed into the European Union. The correct year for joining is 1973, not 1801, which was the union with Ireland, and not 1948 or 1918. Many years later the UK left the European Union, in 2020. So remember two key dates: 1947 for Indian and Pakistani independence, and 1973 for joining the EEC.
Memory tip: 1947 India/Pakistan independent; 1973 UK joins the EEC.
Practise this topic
Question 1 of 3
In which year did India and Pakistan gain independence?
Show all questions and answers for Decolonisation and joining the EEC(3 questions with explanations)
Decolonisation and joining the EEC: questions, answers and explanations
1. In which year did India and Pakistan gain independence?
- 1066
- 1918
- 1999
- 1947
Correct answer: 1947
India, Pakistan and other colonies became independent in 1947.
2. Which of these statements is NOT true?
- India and Pakistan became independent in 1947
- The UK joined the EEC in 1973
- The UK joined the European Economic Community in 1801
Correct answer: The UK joined the European Economic Community in 1801
The UK joined the EEC in 1973, not 1801; 1801 was the union with Ireland.
3. When did the UK join the European Economic Community (EEC)?
- 1948
- 1918
- 1973
- 2020
Correct answer: 1973
The UK joined the EEC in 1973. (It later left the EU in 2020.)
Back to A Long and Illustrious History, or try a mock test or timed exam.