Q. No. 5. Explain the Policy of Disraeli With special reference to peace with Honour.
Policy of Disraeli with Special Reference to “Peace with Honour”
Benjamin Disraeli was a key figure in British politics during the 19th century, serving twice as Prime Minister. His foreign and domestic policies were aimed at maintaining Britain’s power and prestige, and one of his most famous policies was “Peace with Honour,” which referred to his handling of foreign diplomacy.
1. Disraeli’s Overall Policy Goals
a. Strengthening the British Empire:
Disraeli believed in expanding and strengthening the British Empire. He worked to increase Britain’s influence abroad and protect its global interests, particularly in India and the Mediterranean.
b. Conservative Domestic Reforms:
At home, Disraeli focused on reforms that would improve conditions for the working class while maintaining social order. He wanted to win the support of the people while preserving traditional British values.
2. Foreign Policy and the Eastern Question
a. The Eastern Question:
The “Eastern Question” referred to the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the competition between European powers for control of its territories. Disraeli was particularly concerned with protecting British interests in the region, especially access to India.
b. The Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878):
In this conflict, Russia defeated the Ottoman Empire and sought to increase its influence in the Balkans. Disraeli feared that Russian expansion threatened British control of the Mediterranean and India.
3. “Peace with Honour” at the Congress of Berlin (1878)
a. Diplomatic Negotiation:
To resolve the Russo-Turkish War and avoid further conflict, Disraeli played a key role in the Congress of Berlin in 1878. His goal was to limit Russian gains while maintaining European stability.
b. Achieving “Peace with Honour”:
Disraeli’s famous phrase “Peace with Honour” referred to the outcome of the Congress. He managed to negotiate a settlement that preserved the Ottoman Empire as a buffer against Russian expansion. Britain gained control of Cyprus, strengthening its influence in the Mediterranean.
c. Preserving British Prestige:
By avoiding direct military conflict and achieving a diplomatic solution, Disraeli upheld British interests while maintaining peace. This boosted his reputation at home as a strong defender of the British Empire.
4. Impact of Disraeli’s Policy
a. Protection of British Interests:
Disraeli’s foreign policy successfully safeguarded Britain’s strategic interests, particularly in the Mediterranean and India. His “Peace with Honour” was seen as a diplomatic victory that enhanced British prestige.
b. Domestic Popularity:
The success at the Congress of Berlin made Disraeli popular in Britain, as he was seen as a leader who could defend the empire without engaging in costly wars.
5. Conclusion
Disraeli’s “Peace with Honour” policy reflected his broader goals of protecting the British Empire and maintaining its influence abroad. Through diplomatic skill at the Congress of Berlin, he achieved a peaceful resolution to the Eastern Question, securing British interests without resorting to war, thereby preserving peace and honour.
