In Niall Ferguson's book "Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World," he presents a perspective on British imperial history, emphasizing the idea that it was the competition from other empires that threatened Britain, rather than the rising tide of nationalism within its colonies. This viewpoint suggests that external rivals were the primary concern for British authorities, which shaped their policies and responses to global challenges during the imperial era.

Ferguson's analysis implies that recognizing the significance of rival empires is crucial for understanding the dynamics of British colonial rule. By framing the threats in terms of imperial competition, he highlights the complexities and motivations behind Britain's actions, arguing that the focus should be on the geopolitical landscape rather than solely on nationalist movements within the colonies.