Unit 6.1-6.2 AMSCO Reading

Imperialism

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

Columbian Exchange

A widespread exchange of animals, plants, culture, human populations, and diseases between the New World and the Old World, leading to global transformations.

Sino-Japanese War

A conflict fought between China and Japan in 1894-1895, resulting in Japan gaining control of Korea.

Social Darwinism

A theory that applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' to human societies, often used to justify imperialism and racial superiority.

Suez Canal

A man-made waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, significantly shortening the maritime route to Asia.

Berlin Conference

A meeting of European nations in 1884-1885 to regulate colonization and trade in Africa, without the participation of any African nations.

Boer Wars

Conflicts between the British Empire and the Afrikaners in South Africa over territory, resources, and political control.

King Leopold II

The King of Belgium who personally controlled the Congo Free State, infamous for exploiting the population for rubber and ivory.

Taiping Rebellion

A massive civil war in China from 1850 to 1864 led by Hong Xiuquan against the Qing Dynasty, significantly weakened the state's authority.

Boxer Rebellion

An anti-imperialist uprising in China (1899-1901) aimed at expelling foreign influence, largely targeting Western missionaries.

Monroe Doctrine

A U.S. policy established in 1823 declaring that European countries should not interfere in the affairs of the Western Hemisphere.

Manifest Destiny

The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the US throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

Ghost Dance

A Native American religious movement in the late 19th century aimed at restoring Native ways of life, often viewed as a response to colonialism.

Settler Colony

A type of colonial society where settlers from the colonizing country establish permanent homes and governance.

Economic Imperialism

When a foreign power gains control over a country’s economy, often using corporations or exploiting resources.

East India Company (EIC)

A British trading company that played a significant role in the colonization and administration of India.

Dutch East India Company

A powerful Dutch trading company that established a monopoly on trade in the East Indies, and led to the colonization of parts of Southeast Asia.

New Imperialism

The late 19th-century phase of imperialism characterized by a scramble for colonies and the establishment of direct control over vast territories.

Spheres of Influence

Regions in which one state or country has a level of cultural, economic, military, or political exclusivity over another.

Great Game

The political and diplomatic confrontation between the British Empire and the Russian Empire for supremacy in Central Asia during the 19th century.