Final answer:
The British approach to colonialism included the pragmatic training of certain local populations to aid in colonial administration but was not aimed at fostering complete independence. Britain focused on the economic benefit of mercantilism and maintaining political control over its colonies while using local intermediaries in governance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The British approach to colonialism was complex and multifaceted, often built around economic exploitation, cultural assimilation, and political control. The British Empire was an engine of mercantilism, seeking to benefit the mother country through the extraction of raw materials from its colonies, which were then processed and sold back as manufactured goods. In this colonial administration, local populations were often encouraged to adopt British customs, language, and administrative practices to facilitate British dominance and governance.
British colonialism did demonstrate an interest in educating certain classes of the colony's population, enabling them to participate in administration and commerce. This system of indirect rule, particularly in areas like India, included the usage of local intermediaries who were trained in English and administratively competent. However, this should not be confused with an overarching desire for colonial self-governance; rather, it was a pragmatic adaptation to manage large empires.
The correct answer for the student's question, regarding the British approach to colonialism, is B. Britain wanted colonists to know how to govern themselves, although this was within the context of the larger goal of maintaining British control over its colonies and not for the purpose of fostering complete independence.