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At the end of the XIX century the British Empire loses the control of the twelve colonies in North America. This event forces the empire to look for new sources of raw materials and markets in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.

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Near the end of XIX century The British Empire is made up by two types of colonies, the white ones and the color ones. They are all united under the same British institutions: the monarchy, the language (English), legal and
administrative system, and protected by the Royal Army.

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In 1839 due to the unrest and rebellions in Canada, the Durham Report is passed. This means that Canada is autonomous in terms of internal affairs. The external affairs are still in charge of Great Britain. In a way, Canada paves the way for the other white colonies (Australia, South Africa and New Zeland) which follow her. The white colonies gain the status of Dominions.

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During this conference it is decided that from now on conferences between the Dominions and Britain are now identified as Imperial Conferences.

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In 1911 the first Imperial Conference is held. It is purely advisory and consultative, with no excutive or legislative authority.

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During 1917 and 1918 several confereces are held to discuss about post-war problems. It is also decided that India (not a Dominion) is going to be represented in conferences from now a on.

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In the signature of the Treaty of Versailles, the United Kingdom signs as the "British Empire" and all the Dominions sign on the own behalf.

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1926 Imperial Conference and the Balfour Formula

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1926 Imperial Conference and the Balfour Formula

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During the Imperial Conference of 1926 the Balfour Formula is adopted. This declaration accepts the political and diplomatic independence of the Dominions. The British Crown remains as the head of the Commonwealth but the Dominions are now autonomous members of the British Commonwealth of Nations.

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In 1931, with the Statute of Westminster, all legal supremacy of the British Parliament is removed. All restrictions on Dominion legislation are eliminated.

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In 1939, Britain alongside Canada, Australia, New Zeland and South Africa declare war to Germany. The United Kingdom, without consultation, includes India in this war declaration .

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After the war India intensifies the demands for "Dominion" status. In 1947 India is accepted to the Commonwealth as an official member and a republic. Later on Pakistan and Ceylon (Sri Lanka) become members too.

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The acceptance of India, Pakistan and Ceylon to the commonwealth paves the way for African members to become members. This fact sets the precedent that racial equality is accepted as an obligation within the Commonwealth.