The New Imperialism

Introduction

• Definition: Refers to the period of colonial expansion by European powers, the United States, and Japan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Characteristics: Marked by the pursuit of territorial acquisitions and the exploitation of resources.

Causes of New Imperialism

• Economic Interests: Desire for new markets, raw materials, and investment opportunities.
• Political and Military Interests: Establishing naval bases and enhancing national security.
• Social Darwinism and Racism: Belief in the superiority of certain races and the idea of the civilizing mission.

Major Players

• European Powers: Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, and Spain.
• Non-European Powers: United States and Japan.

Impacts of Imperialism

• Economic Exploitation: Colonies were sources of raw materials and markets for manufactured goods.
• Cultural Changes: Spread of Western education, religion, and cultural norms.
• Political Changes: Redrawing of borders and establishment of colonial governments.

Resistance and Anti-Imperial Movements

• Local Resistance: Varied from armed conflict to passive resistance.
• Nationalist Movements: Emerged in colonized countries, seeking independence and self-rule.

Conclusion

• Legacy of Imperialism: Long-term economic, political, and cultural impacts on colonized regions.

Key Terms

• Colonialism: The policy of acquiring and maintaining colonies.
• Empire: A group of states or territories controlled by one ruler.
• Social Darwinism: The application of Darwin's ideas about evolution and "survival of the fittest" to human societies.

Important Figures

• Cecil Rhodes: British imperialist, businessman, and politician in southern Africa.
• King Leopold II: King of Belgium, known for the exploitation of the Congo Free State.

Study Questions

• What were the main motivations behind the New Imperialism?
• How did imperialism affect the economies of colonized countries?
• In what ways did colonized peoples resist imperial rule?

Recommended Reading

• "Imperialism: A Study" by J.A. Hobson
• "The Scramble for Africa" by Thomas Pakenham