Imperialism
Definition
Imperialism is a policy or ideology by which a nation extends its power and influence over other countries, either by force or the establishment of economic and political dominance.
Analogy
Think of imperialism like a popular kid in school who wants to control everything. This kid not only dominates the student council but also influences what clubs are formed, what events are held, and even how other students behave. Just as this popular kid extends his/her influence over others, so does a country during imperialism.
Related terms
Colonialism: This is the practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. It's like that popular kid actually moving into other kids' houses!
Sphere of Influence: A sphere of influence refers to a country or area in which another country has power to affect developments although it has no formal authority. It's like when our popular kid doesn't directly control others but still influences their decisions because they're afraid of him/her.
Neo-colonialism: This term refers to the use of economic, political, cultural pressures to control or influence other countries, especially former colonies where they might have been previously overtly controlled. It's similar to our popular kid graduating but still influencing school affairs through younger siblings or friends left behind at school.
"Imperialism" appears in:
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (20+)
Which of the following European countries played a leading role in colonialism and imperialism during the Industrial Revolution?
Which statement best describes the impact of imperialism on colonized societies in the 19th century?
According to proponents of imperialism and Eurocentrism, what was the justification for European powers to spread their influence to non-Western areas?
How did imperialism affect balance of power among European nations?
How did Social Darwinism affect imperialism during the late nineteenth century?
How did social darwinist theories support imperialism during the late nineteenth century?
What was a main motivating factor behind European imperialism during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries?
Who wrote "The White Man's burden," a poem that justified imperialism as a noble enterprise?
Who led Germany into a new age of imperialism, culminating in World War I?
What was a major impact of imperialism on colonized societies?
What is the primary reason for European imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
What was a major consequence of European imperialism in Africa during the late 19th century?
Who is associated with the notion "the white man's burden", which sought to justify imperialism during the late nineteenth century?
How did industrialization contribute to imperialism?
Which ideology did imperial powers often use to justify their expansion during the Age of Imperialism?
Which factor was most significant in driving European imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
What impact did imperialism have on the social structure of colonized societies during the late nineteenth century?
Which of these events marked the climax of nationalistic tensions exacerbated by imperialism before World War I?
Which of the following best describes a primary cause of imperialism in late 19th-century Europe?
How did imperialism lead to shifts in global power dynamics during the late 19th century?
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