how many countries were part of the British empire?​

It is difficult to provide an exact number for how many countries were part of the British Empire at its peak because the empire underwent many changes throughout its history, with countries being added and lost over time. Additionally, the notion of 'countries' as we understand it today did not always apply in the same sense, as many regions and territories were controlled by the British without being formally recognized as independent countries at the time. However, it is widely recognized that the British Empire was the largest empire in history and at its height, it governed over a quarter of the world's landmass and population.

At the empire's zenith, following the end of the First World War, it is estimated that the British Empire held sway over about 58 territories or countries, inclusive of British India, African colonies, territories in the Americas, the Middle East, Australasia, and various islands in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. When including protectorates and dominions, the number could be even higher.