Colonialism and International Relations

Introduction to Colonialism and International Relations

  • International relations are deeply connected to colonialism.

  • It's hard to discuss global affairs without acknowledging colonial influence.

Historical Context of Colonialism

  • Colonialism was when powerful Western states divided Africa without asking local leaders.

  • African nations fought for independence from colonial rule.

  • Colonial impacts still affect global issues today.

Types of Colonialism
Settler Colonialism

  • Definition: People from the colonizing country move to live permanently in the colonized land.

  • Key characteristics:

    • Permanent settlement: They establish lasting communities.

    • Subjugation: Indigenous people are ruled by outsiders.

    • Exploitation: Economic systems benefit the colonizers.

  • Example: European settlers replacing local economies, like the Ashurbani people.

Racial Hierarchies in Colonialism

  • Colonialism used ideas of racial superiority (White) and inferiority (People of Color).

  • This was a made-up social idea, not a natural one.

  • Racism also existed between different groups within Europe.

The Civilizing Mission

  • Colonizers said they were on a "civilizing mission" to justify their rule.

  • They believed Western culture was better and had to be forced on others.

  • This idea that the West should "develop" the Global South still suggests Western superiority.

  • It highlights control and aggression.

Economic Motivations in Colonialism

  • Economic reasons were crucial for colonialism.

  • It was tied to early capitalism (from the 17th century).

  • Colonialism aimed to boost economic output by replacing non-capitalist societies.

  • Colonizers thought indigenous systems needed changing to be more productive, causing much social upheaval.

Case Studies and Comparative Analysis
Colonization of Japan

  • Japan had oceanic peoples and earlier Chinese colonizers.

  • These historical wrongs still have consequences today.

Trade vs. Subjugation in Colonial Contexts

  • Different colonial practices existed.

  • Example: French Polynesian trade with native Canadians was different from the British approach, which relied more on subjugation.

  • Colonial powers influenced local economies and cultures in various ways.

Conclusion

  • Colonialism still strongly influences international relations, and we must critically examine its ongoing effects.