AP WORLD Rationales for Imperialism

These flashcards cover significant themes, ideologies, and historical events related to imperialism as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is the main theme of Rudyard Kipling's poem 'The White Man's Burden'?

It urges Western countries to establish colonies for the supposed benefit of 'inferior' peoples.

What were some ideologies that contributed to imperialism between 1750 and 1900?

Nationalism, belief in biological superiority, religious duty, and desire for economic wealth.

Which countries prominently sought to build empires in the 19th century?

Britain, France, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, and Japan.

What was a significant outcome of the Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895)?

Japan gained control of Korea.

How did colonial powers perceive their role in relation to colonized peoples?

They viewed themselves as benevolent protectors on a 'civilizing mission'.

What is Social Darwinism?

The adaptation of Darwin's theory of evolution to justify the superiority of certain races and imperialism.

What cultural changes did colonial powers impose on their colonies?

They imposed their languages, political structures, educational systems, and religious practices on colonized peoples.

What role did missionaries play in the context of imperialism?

They aimed to convert colonized peoples to Christianity and often combined religious instruction with humanitarian efforts.

What was the focus of the East India Company during its expansion?

It focused on trade, particularly in textiles, and later became the primary agent of British imperialism in India.

What motivated the formation of the Dutch East India Company in the early 1600s?

To establish a monopoly on trade between Europe and the East Indies and to outcompete the Portuguese.