imperialism
Policy of extending a country's influence through acquisition of territories or control over foreign nations.
nationalism
Sense of pride and identity in one's nation, leading to the desire for independence or dominance.
Sino-Japanese War
Conflict between China and Japan (1894-1895) over influence in Korea, resulting in Japan's victory.
Formosa
Island in East Asia, controlled by Japan from 1895 until the end of World War II.
phrenologists
Pseudoscientists studying skull shapes to claim racial superiority based on size and shape.
Charles Darwin
Naturalist who proposed evolution by natural selection, later misapplied to societal hierarchies.
Social Darwinism
Misuse of Darwin's theory suggesting natural selection justifies social inequalities and imperialism.
David Livingstone
Scottish missionary who worked in Africa promoting humanitarian efforts, notably against slavery.
East India Company (EIC)
British trading company established to monopolize trade with India, later governing regions of India.
Dutch East India Company (VOC)
Dutch chartered company controlled trade in the East Indies, replaced by government control in 1799.