World History II Study Guide: Imperialism

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the topic of imperialism as discussed in the lecture notes.

Imperialism

When strong countries take over lands that already belong to other nations.

Industrial Revolution

The period that provided a source for raw materials necessary for industries.

European Nationalism

A movement that included missionary activity, military bases, societal and economic opportunities, and a sense of racism.

Racism

The belief that one race is superior to another, leading to the enslavement of others based on their skin color.

Social Darwinism

The application of Charles Darwin's ideas of natural selection to human societies, suggesting survival of the fittest.

White Man’s Burden

A poem by Rudyard Kipling that reflected the belief in the racial superiority of white people.

Berlin Conference

A meeting where representatives from 14 European nations convened to avoid conflict over African territory without inviting African rulers.

Boer War

A conflict over land in South Africa that evolved into the first modern 'total war'.

Indirect Control

A form of imperial governance where local officials managed day-to-day affairs on behalf of imperial powers.

Direct Control

A system where foreign officials are brought in to govern, and locals have no role in governance.

Paternalism

A policy where authorities restrict the freedoms of those deemed incapable of governing themselves.

Assimilation

The process of incorporating new elements into an existing structure.

Colony

A territory directly ruled by a foreign power.

Protectorate

A territory indirectly controlled by a foreign power, allowing some local autonomy.

Sphere of Influence

An area where an outside power claims exclusive rights without direct control.

Economic Imperialism

A situation where a territory is effectively controlled by a private company.

Sepoy Mutiny

An uprising by Indian soldiers against British rule, serving as a pivotal moment in India's struggle.

Opium Wars

Conflicts between Britain and China where Britain gained control over Hong Kong and established spheres of influence.

Taiping Rebellion

A massive civil war in China led by peasants aiming to create a poverty-free kingdom.

Open Door Policy

A U.S. policy that aimed to keep China open to trade with all countries and prevent any single nation from monopolizing it.

Boxer Rebellion

A nationalist uprising in China against foreign influence and missionaries.

Meiji Era

A period of intense modernization and Westernization in Japan, including establishment of a constitutional monarchy.

King Leopold II

The second King of the Belgians, notorious for his brutal exploitation of the Congo Free State.

Economic Motives for Colonization

Need for raw materials, new markets, and cheap labor fueling imperial expansion.

Political and Military Motives for Colonization

Aimed to increase national power, prestige, and global influence.

Religious Motives for Colonization

The desire to spread Christianity through missionaries.

Cultural Motives for Colonization

Belief in European superiority justifying imperial endeavors.

British Control in India

Transitioned from control by the British East India Company to direct governance following unrest.

Imperialism's Impact

Involves loss of independence, economic exploitation, cultural changes, and the rise of nationalism.

Chinese vs. Japanese Imperialism

China faced forced concessions and internal rebellions, while Japan modernized and became an imperial power.