Imperialism: Definition, History, Examples, & Facts

Overview

• Imperialism: State policy or practice of extending power and dominion, particularly through territorial acquisition or political and economic influence.
• Often involves military or economic power, considered morally questionable by many.

Historical Examples

• Greek Imperialism: Under Alexander the Great, achieved a union between the eastern Mediterranean and western Asia.
• Roman Empire: Spanned from Britain to Egypt, sought to be a unifying force after Alexander the Great.
• New Imperialism: Period post-1869 after the Suez Canal, marked by European expansion into Africa and Asia.

Key Historical Figures

• Alexander the Great
• Napoleon I
• Charlemagne
• Otto von Bismarck

Modern Context

• Continues to be a term in international propaganda against opponents' foreign policy.
• Examples include the U.S.-led Iraq War, viewed by some as modern imperialism.

Causes and Effects

• Economic Motivations: Empires seen as sources of resources, markets, and outlets for population.
• Power and Strategy: Nations seek strategic territories and influence over communication routes.
• Moral Justifications: Sometimes used to justify the spread of a 'superior' way of life.
• Security Concerns: Acquisition of territories seen as necessary for national security but can lead to international tension.

Criticisms and Debates

• Economic benefits often questioned; some argue it benefits only a small group, not the nation entirely.
• Marxist view ties imperialism to capitalism, seen as a late stage of capitalist development.
• Critics of strategic imperialism argue it doesn't ensure security, leads to conflicts.
• Moral arguments are contentious; used to justify actions seen as beneficial to colonized peoples.

Modern Imperialism

• Neocolonialism: Criticism of aid and development as a guise for new imperialist policies.
• International Solutions: United Nations attempts to mediate imperial ambitions through peaceful measures like collective security and aid.

Key Concepts Related to Imperialism

• Colonialism: Often discussed in tandem with imperialism; refers to the establishment of colonies and the control over their governance.
• Neocolonialism: The practice of using capitalism, globalization, and cultural forces to control a country.
• Expansionism: Policy of territorial or economic expansion.

Closing Remarks

• Imperialism has shaped world history significantly, with impacts still visible in today's global politics and international relations.
• Ongoing debates about its moral implications and its effects on global peace and security.

For further reading, refer to the full article on Britannica.