British colonies were territories controlled by the British Empire from the 16th to the 20th centuries. These colonies were established for various reasons, including trade, resource extraction, and the spread of British culture. They spanned across continents, including North America, Australia, and parts of Africa and Asia. Colonies were governed by British officials and often had local populations that were subject to British laws. Over time, many colonies sought independence, leading to the formation of new nations. The process of decolonization occurred mainly in the mid-20th century, reshaping global politics and relationships.