Imperialism Lecture Notes

Introduction to Imperialism

• Imperialism is the extension of a nation's power over other nations, historically through political, economic, or social control.
• New Imperialism emerged in the 1800s, driven by industrial needs for raw materials and markets.
• Historical examples include empires by the Assyrians, Romans, Han dynasty, and European empires post-1492.

Motivations for Imperialism

Economic Factors

• Industrialized nations in the late 1800s sought raw materials (lumber, cotton, rubber, oil) and markets for goods.

Political Factors

• Nationalism: Pride in one's culture and dominance to boost national prestige.
• Colonies were a source of national pride and power.

Cultural Factors

• Social Darwinism: Applied natural selection to justify empire-building.
• White Man's Burden: Belief in spreading Western values and "civilization."
• Ethnocentrism: Viewing one's own culture as superior.

Colonialism in Asia

Key Terms

• Spheres of Influence, Sepoys, Sepoy Mutiny, Raj, Opium War, Boxer Rebellion, Sino-Japanese War, Russo-Japanese War

British Rule in India

• British East India Company dominated trade and politics in India.
• Sepoy Mutiny: Rebellion led to direct British rule (Raj).
• Benefits included stability, infrastructure, and education, albeit limited to 10% of the population.

East Asia

• China: Opium War expanded British trade influence; spheres of influence by European powers.
• Japan: Modernized under Meiji Restoration; victorious in Sino-Japanese and Russo-Japanese Wars.

Southeast Asia

• By 1900, European powers controlled most of Southeast Asia except Thailand.

Partition of Africa

Key Events

• European powers divided Africa, disregarding tribal and cultural boundaries.
• Berlin Conference: Formalized African partitioning without African representation.
• Notable conflicts include Zulu resistance and the Boer War.

Colonial Rule

• Indirect Rule: European decisions enforced by native authorities.
• Direct Rule: Assimilation into European culture, e.g., French colonies.

Impact of Imperialism

Differing Perspectives

• Colonizers imposed languages, economic systems, and political systems disregarding native cultures.
• Conflicts arose from differing views on governance, labor, and resources.

Legacy of Imperialism

• Mixed effects: introduced Western education and infrastructure but often led to economic dependency, exploitation, and social unrest.

Africa's Struggle Post-Independence

• Gained independence by 1980 but faced challenges due to colonial legacies.
• Issues included economic dependency, inadequate infrastructure, and social tensions.

These notes provide a framework for understanding the complex history of Imperialism, its motivations, consequences, and lasting impact on colonized nations.