Consequences of Industrialization: Notes on Imperialism

Imperialism: State policy or practice of extending power and dominion through direct territorial acquisition.
The period between 1750 and 1900 is often regarded as a "second wave" of imperialism, following the first wave during the Age of Exploration.

Three primary ideologies fueled European imperial expansion:

A strong sense of identity and loyalty to a state led to Western European nations asserting authority over other territories.
Most imperial expansion occurred in Asia and Africa.

After losing American colonies, Britain sought to expand its territories in South Asia, particularly India.
Gradual control over the Indian subcontinent, including regions like Sri Lanka, Burma, and the Malay States.

Following defeat in the Franco-Prussian War (1871), France aimed to regain strength by expanding overseas.
Occupied territories included Algeria (North Africa), Senegal (West Africa), New Caledonia (South Pacific), and Indochina (Southeast Asia).

Spain's power waned in the 19th century, losing much of its previous empire and not obtaining new territories during this second wave of imperialism.

Newly unified in the late 19th century, both countries initiated imperialist endeavors around the 1880s, primarily in Africa.

Japan's invasion of Korea led to the Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895), resulting in Japan's control of both Korea and Taiwan following a victory over China.

Imperial powers believed in their superiority over indigenous populations.
Pseudo-scientific claims suggested non-white races were inferior, using flawed methods such as measuring skull size as evidence.
Social Darwinism, adapted from Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, supported ideas of racial superiority among whites.
Colonizers imposed their culture on indigenous societies, imposing languages, education, and religious beliefs, often justified as a means of unifying the colonies.

Missionaries played a vital role in imperial colonies, working to convert locals to Christianity.
Often, they established schools, provided medical care, and campaigned against the slave trade in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Industrial Revolution transformed European economies, creating a demand for raw materials and new markets for goods.
Competition among imperial powers intensified for resources, markets, and labor.
The desire for low-wage labor contributed to aggressive expansion practices.

Operated from 1600 to 1874, EIC controlled trade with India.
Became a significant player in British imperialism in India, taking over governance and engaging in the slave trade, as well as illegally exporting opium to China in exchange for tea.

Had a monopoly on trade between the Cape of Good Hope and the Strait of Magellan.
Although powerful in trade, VOC did not have the same level of government influence as the EIC.