I think the Romans perfected (or attempted too) some years prior to the UK's Empire. And before that the Byzantines and the Babylonians. The UK's were the largest not because of lack of desire of the others but due to technological advances in communication and transportation.
Have we reached peak withdrawal yet!
Quibbling over whether or not the domestic populace acts with obedience, reminds me of how far we are from expansionist policy and growth.
Do something interesting UK! Nobody cares about Boris Johnson anymore.