How long did Britain rule the world?

Britain's global influence peaked during the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the Victorian era, when it established the largest empire in history. At its height, the British Empire controlled about a quarter of the world's land and population. While formal colonial rule began to decline after World War I, the empire continued to exist in various forms until the mid-20th century, with many colonies gaining independence after World War II. Overall, Britain's significant global dominance spanned roughly two centuries, from the late 18th century to the mid-20th century.