Imperial War Conference facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Imperial War Conferences
Dates	21 March 1917 – 27 April 1917 12 June 1918 – 26 July 1918
Cities	London, United Kingdom
Chair	David Lloyd George (Prime Minister)
Follows	1911 Imperial Conference
Precedes	1921 Imperial Conference
Key points
Imperial constitutional arrangements, Imperial Federation, international relations and treaties

The Imperial War Conferences were important meetings held during World War I. These conferences brought together leaders from the British Empire. They discussed how the different parts of the Empire could work together.

What Were the Imperial War Conferences?

The Imperial War Conferences were special meetings. They happened at the same time as the Imperial War Cabinet. The first conference was from March 21 to April 27, 1917. The second one took place from June 12 to July 26, 1918. Both meetings were held in London, United Kingdom.

Why Were These Meetings Held?

These conferences were very important because of World War I. The war showed that the British Empire needed to be more united. Leaders wanted to make sure everyone helped with the war effort. They also wanted to plan for the future of the Empire after the war.

Key Decisions Made

One of the most important decisions was made in April 1917. It was called Resolution IX. This resolution said that after the war, there should be another meeting. This meeting would change how the Empire was set up.

What Resolution IX Meant

Resolution IX recognized that countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa were becoming more independent. These countries were called "Dominions." The resolution said they should be seen as "autonomous nations." This means they could govern themselves. It also said they should have a strong voice in how the Empire handled foreign policy. Foreign policy is how a country deals with other countries.

India's Role

The conferences also recognized India's importance. India was a big part of the British Empire. Even though India was not yet self-governing, it was invited to future meetings. This showed that the Empire valued India's contribution to defense.

Who Helped Shape These Ideas?

Two important leaders helped write Resolution IX. They were Jan Smuts and Robert Borden. Jan Smuts was from South Africa. Robert Borden was the Prime Minister of Canada. Their ideas helped push for more independence for the Dominions.