European imperialism
Definition
European imperialism refers to the period between the 15th and 20th centuries when European powers colonized and exerted control over territories in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This expansion was motivated by economic, political, and cultural factors.
Analogy
Think of European imperialism as a game of monopoly where players compete to acquire as many properties as possible. The Europeans were like players who strategically claimed territories across the globe to expand their influence and gain resources.
Related terms
Colonialism: Colonialism refers specifically to the practice of establishing settlements or colonies in foreign lands by a dominant power. It involves exploiting resources, imposing cultural norms, and exercising political control over the colonized people.
Nationalism: Nationalism is an ideology that emerged during this time, emphasizing loyalty and devotion to one's own nation or ethnic group. It often fueled competition between nations for colonial dominance.
Mercantilism: Mercantilism was an economic policy prevalent during European imperialism that focused on accumulating wealth through colonial trade. Colonies served as sources of raw materials for manufacturing goods in Europe while providing captive markets for finished products.
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Subjects (1)
Practice Questions (20)
What was the primary motivation behind European imperialism in the 19th century?
What impact did technological advancements have on European imperialism during the late nineteenth century?
How did Social Darwinism influence the ideology of European imperialism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
Which continent was most affected by European imperialism during the late nineteenth century?
What was a major impact of European imperialism on the colonies in the 19th century?
What was one significant negative impact on the colonized societies due to European imperialism?
Which social theory was often used to justify European imperialism during the late 19th century?
What continued to be a driving force behind European imperialism from the 19th century into the early 20th century?
How did feminist theory illuminate the unequal gender dynamics that were prevalent during European imperialism?
What was the primary economic ideology that supported and justified European imperialism in the 19th century?
Which social change was a direct result of colonial rule during European imperialism?
What was a significant impact of European imperialism on colonized societies in the 19th and 20th centuries?
What impact did European imperialism have on the political structures of colonized regions in Africa and Asia during the late 19th to early 20th centuries?
In what way did post-colonial theory impact the interpretation of European imperialism during the late-20th century?
Which was a significant conflict during the period of European imperialism?
What technological innovation of the late 19th century significantly boosted European imperialism by allowing more efficient communication?
What role did technology play in facilitating European imperialism during the late 19th century?
What was one significant impact of European imperialism on the societies they colonized in Africa?
In post-colonial analysis, how was European imperialism viewed vis-a-vis cultural identity formation in colonized nations?
What role did racial hierarchies play during European Imperialism, according to critical race theory?
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