Colonialism

Definition

Colonialism is the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country or territory, often through settlement and exploitation of resources. It typically involves the subjugation of the local population and imposition of the colonizer's culture, values, and economic systems. This term connects deeply with the historical experiences of enslaved people and their descendants, particularly in the context of literature, as writers like Wheatley and Hammon navigated the complexities of identity, resistance, and cultural expression under colonial rule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Colonialism led to the forced migration of millions of Africans to America, where they were enslaved and subjected to harsh labor conditions.
2. The experiences of Wheatley and Hammon as enslaved Africans highlight how colonialism shaped their identities and literary voices, often reflecting themes of oppression and resilience.
3. Colonial powers often justified their dominance through a belief in racial superiority, claiming they were 'civilizing' the populations they conquered.
4. Wheatley was one of the first African American women to publish a book of poetry in America, using her writing to challenge colonial perceptions of race and intellect.
5. Hammon's writings emphasized the spiritual struggles and hopes of enslaved individuals, providing insights into the psychological impacts of colonialism on African American identity.

Review Questions

• How did colonialism shape the identities and literary expressions of writers like Wheatley and Hammon?
  • Colonialism deeply influenced Wheatley and Hammon by constraining their identities within the oppressive structures established by colonial powers. Both writers used their works to navigate their complex realities as enslaved individuals, drawing from their experiences to express resilience against oppression. Their literature often reflected a struggle for recognition and humanity in a society that sought to deny their worth based on race.
• Discuss the impact of colonial attitudes on the perceptions of African Americans during Wheatley and Hammon's time.
  • Colonial attitudes contributed significantly to negative perceptions of African Americans, framing them as inferior and less capable due to deeply ingrained racist ideologies. These perceptions often justified slavery and exploitation while dehumanizing individuals like Wheatley and Hammon. However, both authors utilized their literary talents to challenge these views, asserting their intelligence, creativity, and humanity in a society that marginalized them.
• Evaluate how the legacies of colonialism continue to influence contemporary discussions about race and identity in American literature.
  • The legacies of colonialism persist in contemporary discussions about race and identity as they inform ongoing issues related to systemic racism, cultural appropriation, and social justice. Writers today draw from historical experiences shaped by colonialism, echoing themes found in Wheatley and Hammon's works. Their contributions highlight a continuum of resistance against oppression, underscoring how the past influences present narratives around identity and belonging in American literature.

Related terms

Imperialism: A broader concept that includes colonialism but refers to the policy or ideology of extending a country's influence through diplomacy or military force over other nations or territories.

Postcolonialism: An academic field that studies the effects and ongoing impacts of colonialism on cultures, societies, and identities after the colonial period has ended.

Enslavement: The process by which individuals are forcibly made to work for others without pay, often justified under colonial regimes as a means to exploit labor and resources.