As a historical expert, I specialize in the study of empires and their transformations over time. The British Empire, at its height, was the largest empire in history, covering about a quarter of the world's land area and ruling over a fifth of the world's population. The question of when the British Empire started to fall is a complex one, as it involves a multitude of factors and a gradual process rather than a single, definitive moment.

The decline of the British Empire can be traced back to several key events and periods. The First World War (1914-1918) is often considered a turning point, as it significantly strained Britain's resources and led to a shift in the global balance of power. The war also fostered a sense of nationalism among the colonial subjects who fought alongside British troops, which would later contribute to the push for independence.

However, it was the Second World War (1939-1945) that truly signaled the beginning of the end for the British Empire as a dominant global force. The war left Britain economically weakened and politically compromised. The post-war period, as mentioned in the provided content, led to a steady decline of the empire. The decolonization process was accelerated as nationalist movements in Asia and Africa gained momentum.

In the Asian and African colonies, a variety of methods were employed by nationalist movements to challenge British rule. These included peaceful protests, boycotts, and in some cases, armed resistance. The Indian Independence Movement, led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, is a prime example of non-violent resistance that eventually led to India's independence in 1947, which was a significant blow to the British Empire.

The late 1960s saw a significant wave of decolonization, with many of Britain's territories achieving independence. This period is marked by the end of British rule in Africa, with countries like Nigeria (1960), Kenya (1963), and Tanzania (1961) becoming independent. Similarly, in Asia, countries such as Malaysia (1957) and Singapore (1965) also gained their independence.

By the end of the 1960s, most of the British territories had transitioned into independent countries, leading to the dissolution of the empire as it was known. The process was not uniform, and the circumstances varied from one colony to another. Some were granted independence peacefully, while others experienced prolonged conflicts and negotiations.

It is important to note that the decline of the British Empire was not solely due to external pressures. There were also internal factors at play, such as the changing attitudes within Britain itself towards the maintenance of an empire. The economic costs of maintaining colonial territories became increasingly burdensome, and there was a growing recognition of the need for the colonies to govern themselves.

In conclusion, the fall of the British Empire was a multifaceted process that unfolded over several decades. It was marked by economic, political, and social changes, as well as the rise of nationalist movements in the colonies. The empire's decline is a significant part of modern history, with lasting impacts on the global stage that are still felt today.

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This led to a steady decline of the empire after 1945. In the Asian and African colonies, nationalist movements used a range of methods to end British rule. By the late 1960s, most of Britain's territories had become independent countries.read more >>