Imperialism

Imperialism

A system where powerful nations conquer, control, and exploit colonies outside their own borders, often for economic gain.

Colonies

Territories claimed and governed by an imperial power, often administered by the imperial nation, puppet governments, or local collaborators.

The British Empire

The largest and wealthiest imperial power prior to World War I, occupying one-quarter of the globe and including territories like India, Canada, and South Africa.

Scramble for Africa

The rush by European powers in the second half of the 1800s to build and expand empires, particularly in Africa, driven by nationalism and competition.

Moroccan Crisis

Two diplomatic incidents in the early 20th century involving Germany's interventions in Morocco that escalated tensions between France and Germany.

The Sick Man of Europe

A term used to describe the declining Ottoman Empire in the 19th century, which faced a series of military defeats and territorial losses.

Weltpolitik

Germany's foreign policy aimed at asserting its influence through aggressive imperialism, which contributed to tensions with other European powers.

The Eastern Question

The geopolitical problem posed by the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the resulting scramble for influence and territory by European powers in the Balkans.

Colonial advantages

Economic benefits derived from colonies, including access to raw materials, trade ports, and cheap labor.

Anglo-French alliance

An alliance between Great Britain and France that strengthened in response to German imperial provocations.