The main reasons that imperial nations built large naval forces was to protect their economic interests in these colonies as well as their political interests. In addition they also sought to demonstrate their size and prowess in their ability to exert military force around the globe.
Because the white an believed if they gave them a fire arm they would revolt against them.
They had<span> all sorts of goods that the British wanted. These included things like spices, textiles, cotton, and the opium that the British </span>would<span> sell in China to be able to buy tea. Because </span>India had<span> so many people and so much wealth, it was the "</span>jewel in the crown<span>" of the British Empire.
Hope this helps!</span>
