- Empire typically run by ‘men on the spot’- company directors, governors, high administrators and consuls. Often tempted by opportunities to acquire more influence and so brought more lands under British control. Many took independent decisions about how regions should be administered and developed.
- EVELYN BARING
- Began career as colonial administrator, serving in India as private secretary to cousin, Lord Northbrook, Viceroy from 1872 to 1876. Was able administrator, however was known as ‘Over-Baring’. Typical Victorian colonial administrator who was liberal and hardworking but also condescending towards natives.
- Baring’s second posting was in Egypt in 1877, when he was sent out to help Isma’il Pasha out of his financial difficulties. His advice was ignored but returned in 1882 as Consul-General and established an Egyptian puppet parliament in 1883 under the Dufferin Report. Asserted the need for British supervision of reforms in bankrupt Egypt. This established a ‘veiled protectorate’ in 1885 whereby Baring ruled rulers of Egypt. Remained the real ruler of Egypt till resigning in 1907.
- BARTLE FRERE
- Served in quelling Indian Mutiny, which won him knighthood and place on Viceroy’s Council at Calcutta. Subsequently became Governor of Bombay, a member of India Council in Britain between 1867-1877 and a baronet. His experience led to appointment in 1877 as High Commissioner and Governor of Cape Colony.
- EVELYN BARING
Conservative Colonial Secretary, Lord Carnarvon, chose him to carry out planned confederation, merging British South Africa with Boer republic of Transvaal. South African colonists were hostile to plan and Transvaal Boers wanted to keep independence, leading to Boer War. Frere was left in a difficult position when Carnarvon resigned in 1878. Although ending in British victory, defeat of British forces at Isandhlwana in January 1879 and high cost of war led to official reprimand. Gladstone’s Liberal government denounced him for acting recklessly.