Imperialism: A Historical Analysis
Imperialism in the Late 19th Century
Imperialism emerged in the late nineteenth century, coinciding with the Second Industrial Revolution. European powers began expanding their influence across the globe, particularly in Africa and established colonial empires.
Economic Causes of Colonialism
- Raw materials and cheap labor were sought.
- New markets were desired.
- Overpopulation led to demographic pressures, with many European families migrating to Africa for a better life.
- Political powers aimed to dominate areas of economic and strategic interest.
- Nationalistic ideologies defended the right of some nations to control others.
- Europeans believed they were culturally and technologically superior, leading to a perceived civilizing mission, which often resulted in racism.
Exploration and Conquest
In the 19th century, much of Africa was still unexplored. This fueled colonialism, with scientists and explorers like Livingstone and Stanley mapping Central Africa.
Colonial Organization
- Exploitation Colonies: The dominating country (metropolis) controlled the occupied territory (colony) and its people. White settler families were installed to create plantations and mines.
- Settler Colonies: Colonies with a significant white population, which were dependent on the metropolis but had some self-governance (e.g., Canada and Australia).
- Protectorates: Territories occupied by the metropolis, which maintained their local organization and authorities.
The Berlin Conference of 1885 facilitated the distribution of Africa among European powers.
Major Colonial Powers
Great Britain possessed the largest empire, controlling North-South Africa, with India as its main colony, and controlling shipping lanes. France held colonies in North Africa and Southeast Asia. Other colonial powers included Russia, Holland, Portugal, Germany, Italy, Belgium (colonized Congo), and Spain.
Expansion Beyond Africa
- The United States, after the war with Spain in 1898, acquired the Philippines, Cuba, and Puerto Rico and occupied Panama to build a transoceanic canal.
- Japan occupied the Kurile Islands, Korea, and Formosa (Taiwan).
- In Asia, the northern half was occupied by the Russians, while the British controlled Burma, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. The French took Indochina (Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia).
Consequences of Colonialism
Colonialism led to infrastructure development, expansion of cultivation, and the establishment of hospitals and vaccination programs, which increased life expectancy. Schools were built, and the language and culture of the metropolis were imposed, including attempts to spread Christianity.
Economic Transformations
- Colonists imposed their economic interests.
- Land was transferred to settlers.
- Large plantations produced goods sent to the metropolis (cocoa, coffee, etc.).
- Traditional crops of the indigenous people were replaced.
- Currency and the capitalist economy were imposed, often ruining indigenous people.
- Local crafts were destroyed by the influx of industrial products.
Chronology
- 1870: Second Industrial Revolution
- 1875: Victoria I, Empress of India
- 1882: Triple Alliance
- 1895: Scramble for Africa
- 1898: United States defeated Spain
- 1907: Triple Entente
- 1912-13: Balkan Wars
- 1914: Assassination in Sarajevo
Key Terms
- Metropolis: The country dominating a colony.
- Colony: An occupied territory.
- Racism: Discrimination against indigenous people, based on the colonists’ belief in their superiority.
World War I (G.W.I)
World War I was an armed conflict that took place between 1914 and 1918, involving almost every country in the world. Over 10 million people died, and 32 countries were involved.
Alliances
- Triple Entente: France, Britain, and Russia.
- Triple Alliance: Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy.