Imperialism

What is imperialism?

Imperialism is the domination by one country over the political, economic, and/or cultural life of another country or region.

When did European colonization begin, and what was its initial focus?

European colonization began in the 15th and 16th centuries during the Age of Exploration, focusing on the Americas for rich resources.

How did Europe gain control over regions during early colonization?

Europe gained control through strong political power, militaristic ideologies, advanced weaponry, and alliances or conquests.

What was the main economic motivation for 19th-20th century imperialism?

The Industrial Revolution created a need for raw materials and new markets for finished goods.

Why were European nations unable to rely solely on internal resources for industrialization?

Resources in Europe were insufficient or too expensive, prompting the search for cheaper materials from colonies.

What was the role of nationalism in imperialism?

Nationalism motivated expansion to demonstrate national strength and prestige, fueling rivalries among powers.

How did national pride lead to competition for colonies?

Countries competed for land and resources to prove their strength, turning imperialism into a contest for dominance.

What is Social Darwinism, and how did it motivate imperialism?

Social Darwinism justified the domination of stronger races over weaker ones, promoting colonization as beneficial.

How did Social Darwinism reinforce beliefs in European superiority?

It classified races with whites seen as superior, justifying domination as a means to 'save' non-whites.

How did Christianity contribute to imperialism?

Missionaries linked expansion with spreading Christianity, viewing it as a moral duty to convert non-Christians.

Why did European missionaries see 'civilizing' other regions as their duty?

They believed non-Christian societies needed guidance through European values and religion to improve lives.

What new innovations enabled European imperialism in the 19th-20th centuries?

Steamships, quinine, and the Maxim machine gun provided advantages in travel, health, and military power.

Why were steamships and quinine important for expansion into Africa and Asia?

Steamships allowed safer travel, and quinine reduced malaria deaths, enabling access to previously unreachable areas.

How did the Maxim machine gun give Europeans an advantage?

It provided unmatched firepower, allowing small forces to defeat larger indigenous armies.

Summarize why imperialism expanded in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Imperialism expanded due to economic needs, nationalism, Social Darwinism, Christianity, and technological innovations.