Justification of Imperialism and Its Consequences

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the justifications for imperialism, its effects, and responses by indigenous populations.

Justification of Imperialism

Rationalization by Western European states to dominate territories for resource extraction and trade.

Nationalism

Sense of commonality among people with shared language, religion, and customs, leading to a desire for self-rule.

Scientific Racism

Classification of humans based on race using pseudoscientific methods, asserting white superiority.

Social Darwinism

Application of Darwin's theory of evolution to societies, suggesting that Western nations are 'fittest'.

Civilizing Mission

Religious and moral obligation perceived by Western societies to impose their superior culture on 'lower' nations.

Expansion of Imperial States

Geographical and political shift in imperial control focusing on Africa, while earlier empires like Spain and Portugal declined.

Diplomacy

Negotiating political agreements among powers, as exemplified by the Berlin Conference.

Settler Colonies

Territories claimed and inhabited by imperial powers, often with the intent of establishing a permanent presence.

Direct Resistance

Active uprisings against imperial powers by colonized peoples, such as the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

Economic Imperialism

Dominion exerted through economic means rather than direct territorial control.

Opium Wars

Conflicts between Britain and China over trade imbalances, leading to Chinese concessions.

Treaty of Nanjing

Unequal treaty imposed on China, marking the end of the First Opium War and opening additional trade ports.

Labor Migration

Movement of populations from one region to another, often driven by economic opportunities.

Indentured Servitude

Contractual labor where individuals agree to work for a set number of years in exchange for passage to a new land.

Nativism

Policy that favors the interests of native-born inhabitants over those of immigrants.

Chinese Exclusion Act

A U.S. federal law aimed at banning Chinese immigration in response to nativist sentiments.