history

Imperialism

The practice where a stronger nation controls weaker regions politically, economically, or militarily.

Economic motives of imperialism

Need for raw materials, new markets, and cheap labor.

Political motives of imperialism

Control of trade routes and global power.

Cultural motives of imperialism

Belief in European superiority.

Impact of industrialization on imperialism

Industrial technology increased military advantage and required resources and markets.

Social Darwinism

The belief that those who were more 'fit' (stronger nations) were naturally destined to dominate weaker nations.

White Man’s Burden

The idea that it is the duty of white colonizers to educate and civilize non-European peoples.

Forms of imperial control: Direct Rule

A system where a central authority controls the territory and local governance.

Forms of imperial control: Indirect Rule

A system where local rulers maintain their authority under the guidance of colonizers.

Assimilation

The process whereby a minority group adopts the customs and attitudes of the prevailing culture.

Paternalism

The attitude of treating others as if they were children, providing for their needs but not granting them rights.

Spheres of influence

Areas where foreign powers have exclusive rights over trade and investment.

Opium Wars

Conflicts between Britain and China over trade and China's attempts to restrict the opium trade.

Treaty of Nanjing

The agreement that ended the First Opium War, granting concessions to Britain.

Spheres of influence in China

Regions overseen by foreign powers that allowed control without full colonization.

Sepoy Rebellion (1857)

An uprising against the British East India Company's rule in India, sparked by cultural tensions.

Impact of the Sepoy Rebellion

It highlighted the dangers of British reliance on Indian soldiers and resulted in direct British rule.

British ‘divide and rule’ strategies

Methods used by the British to foster divisions among Indian communities to prevent unified resistance.

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

A tragic event where British troops fired on civilians in Amritsar, India, increasing nationalistic fervor.

Scramble for Africa

The rapid invasion and colonization of African territory by European powers during the late 19th century.

Berlin Conference

The meeting where European powers divided Africa without considering ethnic and linguistic groups.

King Leopold II

The Belgian king who claimed humanitarian motives for the exploitation of the Congo Free State, leading to widespread abuse.

Congo Reform Association

An organization formed to protest and reform the exploitative practices in the Congo Free State.

Legacy of imperialism in Africa today

Ongoing political, social, and economic challenges stemming from the colonial rule.