Chapter 8: The Rise of Global Powers and International Tensions

#8.1 Imperialism

1. What is Imperialism?

Imperialism is a system where a powerful nation, often called a "mother country," extends its control over weaker countries or territories. This control can be political, economic, cultural, or military. It's like a big, strong nation taking control of smaller, weaker ones.

2. Old vs. New Imperialism

⭐Old Imperialism (15th-18th centuries): This was mostly about establishing colonies for trade and resources. Think of the Spanish and Portuguese colonies in the Americas – they were after gold, spices, and land.
⭐New Imperialism (19th-early 20th centuries): This was a more aggressive and comprehensive form of imperialism. Powerful nations, fueled by industrialization and nationalism, sought to control vast territories for economic, political, and strategic reasons. They wanted to expand their influence, access raw materials, and control key trade routes.

3. Key Features of New Imperialism

⭐Industrialization: Industrialized nations needed raw materials like rubber, oil, and cotton. They also needed new markets to sell their manufactured goods. Colonies provided both.
⭐Nationalism: Each country wanted to show its strength and importance by acquiring colonies. It was seen as a sign of national power and prestige.
⭐Racism and Social Darwinism: Many Europeans believed they were racially superior to other people. They used this belief to justify taking control of other lands. Some even argued that "survival of the fittest" applied to nations, with stronger nations destined to rule weaker ones.
⭐Technological Advances: Improved weapons, steamships, and medicine made it easier for European powers to conquer and control vast territories.

4. Motivations for New Imperialism

⭐Economic: Gain access to raw materials, create new markets for manufactured goods, and secure investments.
⭐Political: Strengthen national power and influence, establish strategic alliances, and create global empires.
⭐Social: Spread European culture and civilization, convert people to Christianity, and improve the lives of people in colonized territories (though this was often used as a justification, not the actual motivation).

5. Major Players in New Imperialism

⭐Great Britain: The most powerful imperial power, with a vast empire spanning the globe.
⭐France: Built a significant empire in Africa and Southeast Asia.
⭐Germany: A latecomer to imperialism, but quickly established a considerable empire in Africa and East Asia.
⭐Belgium: Notorious for its brutal exploitation of the Congo.
⭐United States: Expanded into the Pacific and Caribbean, acquiring colonies like Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

6. Impact of New Imperialism

⭐Positive: Improved infrastructure and education in some colonized territories, new technologies and ideas introduced, and global interconnectedness increased.
⭐Negative: Exploitation of resources and people, loss of cultural identity, forced labor, and violence against indigenous populations.

7. The Legacy of New Imperialism

New imperialism created a world divided into powerful empires and colonized territories, setting the stage for conflicts like World War I. Its legacy of racial inequalities and economic disparities continues to shape global politics and society today.