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In a world where the Empire remained strong and stable, (Why? I don't know, perhaps no intervention in WWI to start) would it have funded people and projects that could lead to an earlier form of the Internet (primary incentive being faster and safer communication across the Empire in a way the all red line could never match) and/or Intermodal Containers (primary incentive being faster transfer of resources by sea and land to and fro all corners of the Empire)? Would standardization of rail gauges be encouraged and if so would any attempt be plausible? Would there be any unforseen negative affects to the British? Ie. Increased trade and communication between Britain and the colonies would help develop their economies faster thus leading to stronger independence movements in places like Africa and India?
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