Colonialism
Definition
Colonialism is the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.
Analogy
Imagine if someone moved into your house without asking, took over your room, ate your food and then made you do all their chores. That's kind of what colonialism was like for many countries that were colonized.
Related terms
Imperialism: This is an extension of colonialism where powerful nations exert influence or direct control over less powerful ones.
Decolonization: This is the process by which colonies become independent from their colonizing countries.
Settler Colonies: These are areas where people from a foreign nation have migrated en masse and settled down.
"Colonialism" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (3)
- Which of the following European countries played a leading role in colonialism and imperialism during the Industrial Revolution?
- During the period from 1648–1815, what role did colonialism play in Europe's economic development?
- How did institutional reforms in Europe influence the concept and practice of colonialism globally?
Resources
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