Canada achieved effective independence (as a Dominion within the British Empire)in 1867, but still remained within the British empire (Newfoundland remained a British territory and did not join Canada until 1949). Australia, which was originally settled by prisoners from England, did not obtain self-rule for its separate colonies until the 1850s; it obtained independence as a united Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. New Zealand also won self-rule in the 1850s and Dominion status (effective independence) in 1907. | Canada achieved effective independence (as a Dominion within the British Empire)in 1867, but still remained within the British empire (Newfoundland remained a British territory and did not join Canada until 1949). Australia, which was originally settled by prisoners from England, did not obtain self-rule for its separate colonies until the 1850s; it obtained independence as a united Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. New Zealand also won self-rule in the 1850s and Dominion status (effective independence) in 1907. |