Semester II, 2025-2026

What is Imperialism?

Imperialism is when a powerful country takes political, economic, or military control over another territory.

Main Reasons for Imperialism

The three main reasons for imperialism are Gold (economic), Glory (political), and God (cultural).

Gold (Economic Reasons)

European nations sought raw materials, new markets for products, and cheap labor.

Glory (Political Reasons)

Countries competed for colonies to increase power and national pride.

God (Cultural Reasons)

Europeans believed in spreading Christianity and Western culture, viewing themselves as superior.

The East India Company

A British trading company that gradually gained control of India, managing trade, taxes, and local rulers.

Positive Effects of Imperialism in India

Improvements included railroads, telegraph systems, and modern schools.

Negative Effects of Imperialism in India

Indians lost political power, traditional industries were damaged, and heavy taxes were imposed.

Causes of the Sepoy Rebellion

The rebellion was sparked by cultural disrespect from the British, specifically regarding new rifle cartridges.

Results of the Sepoy Rebellion

The rebellion failed, leading to direct British control of India and the end of East India Company rule.

Who were the Boers?

Dutch settlers in South Africa.

Causes of the Boer War

Britain sought control of gold, diamonds, and trade routes.

Results of the Boer War

Britain's victory led to British control over South Africa.

Positive Effects of Imperialism

Improved transportation systems, introduction of new technology and medicine, and expansion of education.

Negative Effects of Imperialism

Exploitation, loss of local cultures, increased racism and inequality, and lack of freedom for colonized people.

M.A.I.N. causes of World War I

Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, Nationalism.

Immediate Cause of WWI

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914.

What was trench warfare?

Soldiers fought from long ditches known as trenches, which had poor conditions.

Causes of US entry into WWI

German U-boat attacks, the Zimmerman Telegram, and economic ties with Britain and France.

What were Wilson's 14 Points?

Goals for preventing future wars and promoting peace, including self-determination for nations.

Effects of the Treaty of Versailles

Germany accepted blame for the war, paid reparations, reduced its military, and lost territory.

What was the Bolshevik Revolution?

A 1917 revolution where the Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, seized power in Russia.

What is communism?

An economic and political system where property is collectively owned and social classes are eliminated.

What was Stalin's Totalitarian Regime?

A government where Stalin controlled politics, economy, media, education, and personal freedoms.

What was the Armenian Genocide?

The mass killing of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire during WWI.

Why did the Armenian Genocide happen?

Ottoman leaders feared Armenians would support Russia and treated them as enemies.

Results of the Armenian Genocide

About 1–1.5 million Armenians died, considered one of the first modern genocides.