World History Imperialism

Imperialism

A policy where a country extends its power by taking control over other lands and peoples

Social Darwinism

The belief that stronger nations are naturally meant to dominate weaker ones

Berlin Conference

An 1884–1885 meeting where European nations divided Africa among themselves

Scramble for Africa

The rapid takeover of African land by European powers in the late 1800s

King Leopold II

The Belgian king who brutally controlled the Congo for personal profit

Economic (Motive)

Desire for raw materials, new markets, and profit

Political (Motive)

Desire to gain power, compete with other nations, and expand influence

Ideological (Motive)

Belief that one's culture or race is superior and should spread

Religion (Motive)

Desire to spread Christianity and convert others

Exploratory (Motive)

Curiosity and desire to discover new lands and resources

Colony

A territory settled and ruled directly by people from another country

Protectorate

A territory that has its own government but is controlled by an outside power

Economic Imperialism

Control of a country’s economy without direct political control

Sphere of Influence

An area where a foreign nation has exclusive trade rights and influence

Direct Rule

A system where the imperial power governs the colony itself

Indirect Rule

A system where local leaders govern under the control of the imperial power