AP World History Review—Unit 6 Topic 1

Context of New Imperialism

Period of Focus: The era from 1750 to 1900 marked a significant wave of imperialism characterized by the expansion of empires, particularly among Western powers. This period was distinct due to its emphasis on the economic, political, and ideological motivations behind imperial actions.

Previous Wave: Earlier Western European maritime empires primarily dominated Indian Ocean trade, engaging in commercial interests and territorial control over the Americas. The earlier imperial endeavors set the groundwork for the emergence of more aggressive and ideologically driven imperialism in the 19th century.

Ideological Shift

An important ideological shift occurred during this time, where Enlightenment principles of liberty and self-governance contrasted sharply with the realities of imperial domination. Thinkers challenged the moral justification for empire, leading to debates about rights, governance, and the ethical implications of colonization.

Major Ideologies Motivating Second Wave Imperialism

Four primary ideologies fueled imperialism during this period, profoundly influencing the justifications for expansion.

1. Nationalism

   • Definition: Nationalism is a sense of common identity formed from shared language, religion, customs, and a collective history, driving the desire for self-rule and independence from colonial powers.

   • Shift in Loyalty: People began to see themselves not merely as subjects under monarchies but as constituents of a national entity. This change fostered a sense of pride and urgency toward nation-building.

   • Impact on History:

     • It catalyzed unification movements in Italy and Germany, where national identity became intertwined with political action.

     • The competition heightened rivalries among imperial states, as they vied for territories, resources, and status, leading to intensified conflicts and a climate of aggressive nationalism.

2. Scientific Racism

   • Definition: Scientific racism posits a hierarchical ranking of human beings based on race, suggesting that white Europeans were inherently superior to other races.

   • Transition from Religious to Racial Divisions:

     • Earlier distinctions among peoples primarily revolved around religious affiliations (e.g., Christianity versus non-Christian societies).

     • The shift towards a racial classification system became a significant tool for justifying colonial actions and oppressive policies.

   • Example of Pseudo-Science:

     • Phrenology: This controversial study claimed that the shape and size of human skulls could be used to justify perceptions of racial superiority, especially the belief in white supremacy over others. This concept played a role in legitimizing discriminatory policies and practices in colonies.

3. Social Darwinism

   • Reference to Darwinism: Based on Charles Darwin's theories of natural selection, social Darwinism applies the principle of "survival of the fittest" to human societies.

   • Application to Human Society: Proponents of social Darwinism asserted that Western industrial nations were the 'fittest' and hence justified in dominating and civilizing weaker nations, which they saw as incapable of achieving the same level of progress.

   • Justification for Expansion: This ideology provided a rationalization for imperial endeavors, insisting that robust nations had not only a right but a moral duty to conquer and dominate less developed societies in the name of progress and civilization.

4. Civilizing Mission

   • Purpose: The civilizing mission was grounded in a perceived moral obligation to spread Western civilization and Christianity to what colonial powers labeled as "inferior" or "backward" cultures.

   • Actions Taken:

     • Colonizing actions focused heavily on religious conversion, with missionaries playing a key role in promoting Western values and faith.

     • Establishing Western governmental structures and educational systems aimed to suppress indigenous languages and traditions, eroding local identities.

Summary of Ideological Impact on Imperialism

The convergence of nationalism, scientific racism, social Darwinism, and the civilizing mission during this era created a formidable impetus for the second wave of imperialism. These ideologies not only justified but actively encouraged the expansion of empires across Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world, leading to widespread changes in local societies and global power dynamics.

Next Steps

The discussion on this topic will continue in the next video, where we will explore how these ideologies translated into specific actions taken by imperial powers, shaping the course of history in profound ways.