Imperialism: Economic, Demographic, and Ideological Drivers
Imperialism: Driving Forces
Economic Factors
The crisis of 1873 led to a decline in prices and a rise in protectionism, where countries protected their products by restricting foreign goods through bans or taxes. This spurred the need for new markets outside of this system. European capitalist powers like England, Netherlands, and France needed to invest surplus capital, providing loans and developing infrastructure in other continents. They also sought raw materials, such as silver, oil, rubber, gold, and copper, which were becoming scarce in Europe. The expansion of industrial capital drove the search for new territories to invest accumulated capital, often through loans to indigenous collaborators and infrastructure projects. This also included land appropriation for raw materials and market dominance.
Demographic Shifts
Between 1850 and 1914, Europe’s population sharply increased, even doubling in size. This led to resource scarcity in some countries. Approximately 40 million Europeans emigrated to colonies, seeking better conditions and wealth due to lack of opportunities and food at home.
Social Darwinism
See also: Social Darwinism
Imperialists, particularly in England, adopted Social Darwinism to justify their actions. Based on Darwin’s theories of natural selection, they argued that advanced societies were entitled to dominate less advanced ones.
Scientific Exploration
There was a strong interest in discovering and analyzing new species, exploring new territories, and conducting research. This drove scientists to seek progress, leading to advancements in fields like biology and botany.
Technical and Political Policies
Some politicians sought to regain prestige by acquiring new territories. The development of steamships, which required coastal points for coal replenishment, also played a role. As these points became state-controlled, the desire to control more territory grew. Political dominance led to economic dominance and market control.
Military and Geostrategic Factors
The period between 1871 and 1914, known as the Belle Epoque, saw peace among major European powers. The growing population provided a pool for recruitment in non-European territories, supporting colonial expansion. Geostrategic reasons included competition for naval routes and key inland areas, such as Central Asia and the continuity of the empire in Africa.