What was Winston Churchill's stance on colonialism?

What was Winston Churchill's stance on colonialism?

Winston Churchill's stance on colonialism was complex and evolved over time. In his early political career, he was a staunch supporter of the British Empire and believed in the benefits of colonial rule. He famously said, "I have not become the King's First Minister in order to preside over the liquidation of the British Empire." However, as he gained more experience and witnessed the struggles for independence in various colonies, his views began to change. In the later years of his career, Churchill recognized the need for self-governance and advocated for a more cooperative relationship between Britain and its colonies. He believed in granting more autonomy to colonies and promoting their economic development. Overall, Churchill's stance on colonialism shifted from a staunch defender to a more pragmatic approach that acknowledged the changing global dynamics.