Great Britain's Strategic Calculations:

Faced with the growing might and territorial ambitions of the United Empire of France, Great Britain made strategic decisions to safeguard its own sovereignty and maintain control over its key colonies. Recognizing the potential threat posed by the French empire, Great Britain prioritized its own territorial integrity and consolidated its holdings in strategic regions.

1. Retaining India: In this alternate timeline, Great Britain continues to exert control over its prized colony, India. The British Raj, a British-dominated political entity, maintains its influence over the Indian subcontinent. British colonial administrators and military forces remain in power, exploiting the region's resources, establishing trade networks, and exercising authority over the local population. India, under British rule, becomes a key asset for the empire, providing wealth, strategic advantages, and access to the vast markets of the East.

2. Maintaining Australia: Great Britain also retains its control over Australia, further solidifying its presence in the Southern Hemisphere. The Australian colonies continue to develop under British governance, attracting settlers and experiencing economic growth. The British utilize Australia's resources and establish it as a strategic outpost in the Pacific region.

3. African Territories: In addition to India and Australia, Great Britain extends its colonial presence into several regions of Africa, establishing colonies and exerting control over key territories. The exact composition of British African holdings may vary depending on your campaign setting, but some examples of potential British-controlled regions could include:

• Egypt: Great Britain maintains a strong presence in Egypt, primarily due to its strategic location and the importance of the Suez Canal as a vital trade route connecting Europe to Asia.

• South Africa: British colonial influence in South Africa remains intact, with the Cape Colony serving as a prominent British settlement and a gateway to the African continent.

• East Africa: British-controlled territories in East Africa include regions such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, which are valuable for their resources, trade opportunities, and strategic importance.

• West Africa: Great Britain maintains a foothold in parts of West Africa, establishing colonies along the coastline and potentially exerting control over territories such as Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Ghana.

• British Central Africa: This fictional administrative division encompasses British-controlled territories in central Africa, potentially including present-day Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

4. Loss of the American Colonies: In this alternate timeline, the American colonies successfully break away from British rule, with the United States emerging as an independent nation. The fear of French expansionism and the need to concentrate efforts elsewhere lead Great Britain to prioritize the defense of its core territories and vital colonies over retaining control over the American colonies. The American Revolution still takes place, resulting in the birth of the United States of America.

Cultural Influence and National Identity:

While Great Britain manages to preserve its holdings, including India and Australia, the cultural impact on its colonies differs from that of the French Empire. Great Britain, recognizing the importance of allowing colonies some semblance of national identity, adopts a more lenient approach. British colonies, though under British administration, are allowed to maintain certain aspects of their cultural heritage and traditions. This approach fosters a sense of loyalty and cooperation among the colonized populations.

Conclusion:

Great Britain, driven by the fear of French expansionism, secures its interests across the globe. It retains control over India and Australia, leveraging their resources and strategic advantages. Furthermore, the British Empire extends its influence into various regions of Africa, establishing colonies and exerting control over territories. The British approach of allowing certain cultural preservation within its African colonies aims to foster stability and loyalty. These geopolitical dynamics, shaped by the United Empire of France and Great Britain, create a complex tapestry of rivalries, alliances, and colonial influences across the globe.