Key Economic and Political ISMs of the 19th Century

Capitalism

An economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production, market competition, and the pursuit of profit, where investment and production decisions are driven by supply and demand.

Socialism

An economic and political system in which the means of production are owned or regulated by the community as a whole, aiming for an equitable distribution of resources and wealth.

Communism

A political and economic ideology that seeks to establish a classless society in which all property is publicly owned, and each person works and is paid according to their abilities and needs.

Romanticism

An artistic, literary, and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature, reacting against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the industrial revolution.

Realism

A literary and artistic movement that aimed to represent subject matter truthfully and accurately, depicting everyday life and society in a direct manner.

Impressionism

An artistic movement that originated in France in the late 19th century characterized by small, visible brush strokes, an emphasis on light and its changing qualities, and a focus on everyday subject matter.

Nationalism

An ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often prioritizing national identity and sovereignty.

Imperialism

The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

Social Darwinism

A social theory emerging in the late 19th century that applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from Darwin's theory of evolution to human societies, often justifying imperialism and racism.

Militarism

A political and social theory that places a strong emphasis on military power and the readiness of a nation to use force to assert its interests.

Berlin Conference

The conference that determined the rules for the division of Africa.

Ethiopia

The African country that successfully resisted European rule, most notably defeating Italy at the Battle of Adwa in 1896.

Belgium

The country that colonized the Congo under King Leopold II, leading to brutal exploitation and widespread atrocities.

India

The country considered the 'Jewel of the British Empire' due to its vast resources, strategic significance, and the immense economic wealth it generated.

Mahatma Gandhi

A key leader in the Indian independence movement, advocating for nonviolent resistance against British rule.

Opium War

The conflict that broke out in China against Britain due to Britain's export of opium, leading to widespread addiction and social issues.

Boxer Rebellion

The uprising that occurred in 1900 because many Chinese resisted the special trading privileges and influence of the foreigners (imperialist powers).

Commodore Matthew Perry

The U.S. naval officer whose arrival in Japan in 1853 led to the end of Japan's isolationist policy.

British Empire

The empire on which it was said that the 'Sun Never Set,' indicating its vast global reach.

Justification of Imperialism

European countries often justified imperialism through a sense of racial superiority, manifest destiny, claiming a civilizing mission, and by arguing that they were bringing progress, culture, and religion to 'backward' peoples.

Colonies in the 1800s

At the end of the 1800s, colonies were seen as a sign of national strength and prestige, demonstrating a nation's power and influence in global affairs.

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

Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, and Nationalism.

Beginning of World War I

World War I began after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, with alliances causing the conflict to escalate quickly.