Unit 3: New Imperialism

What was the purpose of the Berlin Conference?

To divide Africa among European powers without African leaders' input.

Who were the Boers?

Dutch settlers in South Africa who fought the British for land and resources.

What is imperialism?

A policy where a strong nation dominates other regions politically, economically, or militarily.

Which African countries resisted European colonization?

Ethiopia (successfully through military victory) and Liberia.

What was the Meiji Restoration?

A period where Japan modernized and industrialized rapidly to resist Western influence.

What were two goals of New Imperialism?

Access to raw materials/new markets and spreading Western culture/religion.

What did Commodore Matthew Perry do in Japan?

Used naval force to end Japan’s isolationism and open its ports to trade.

What were the results of the Opium War?

Britain won, forcing China to pay reparations, cede Hong Kong, and open trade ports.

Which leader emerged from Indian resistance to imperialism?

Mahatma Gandhi (non-violent movement).

Why did European nations want natural resources from Africa?

To provide raw materials (rubber, gold, etc.) for their factories.

How did the Industrial Revolution contribute to imperialism?

Created high demand for resources and provided advanced technology (machine guns, steamships) for conquest.

Why did Japan decide to industrialize?

To become strong enough to avoid being colonized or defeated like China.

What were spheres of influence in China?

Coastal areas where foreign nations had exclusive economic and trade rights.

What motivated European nations to seek colonies?

Economic gain, military competition, and the "White Man’s Burden" ideology.

Why did Liberia and Ethiopia remain independent?

Liberia had ties to the U.S.; Ethiopia successfully defeated an Italian invasion.