Imperialistic Policies

Definition

Imperialistic policies refer to the strategic actions and ideologies employed by nations to extend their power and influence over other countries or territories, often through colonization, economic domination, or military conquest. These policies were driven by a desire for resources, markets, and prestige, significantly shaping global relations during the era of imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Imperialistic policies were often justified by the belief in racial superiority and the notion of the 'civilizing mission,' which claimed that imperial powers had a duty to 'civilize' non-Western societies.
2. The Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 formalized European claims to African territory, setting the stage for aggressive colonial expansion and competition among European nations.
3. Imperialistic policies led to significant economic exploitation of colonies, where raw materials were extracted and exported to benefit the imperial powers' economies.
4. Resistance to imperial rule often emerged in colonized regions, resulting in conflicts that shaped both local and global histories, including uprisings like the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
5. The consequences of imperialistic policies are still felt today, contributing to ongoing economic disparities and geopolitical tensions in formerly colonized regions.

Review Questions

• How did imperialistic policies shape the relationships between European powers in the late 19th century?
  • Imperialistic policies intensified competition among European powers as they sought to expand their empires and secure resources. The desire for colonies often led to conflicts, diplomatic tensions, and negotiations, exemplified by events such as the Berlin Conference, which divided Africa among European nations. This competitive atmosphere not only altered political landscapes but also fostered rivalries that would later contribute to global conflicts.
• Evaluate the impact of economic imperialism on the development of global trade patterns during the age of imperialism.
  • Economic imperialism significantly transformed global trade patterns by establishing new routes and dependencies. Imperial powers often exploited their colonies for raw materials while flooding these markets with manufactured goods. This relationship created an economic structure where colonies became dependent on their imperial rulers for trade, leading to imbalanced economies that favored the interests of the imperial nations at the expense of local industries and self-sufficiency.
• Analyze how imperialistic policies influenced national identity and social attitudes in both colonizing and colonized countries.
  • Imperialistic policies fostered a sense of national pride and identity among colonizing countries as they viewed their expansion as a manifestation of superiority. This mindset was often accompanied by racist ideologies that dehumanized colonized populations. Conversely, colonized nations experienced cultural disruption and resistance movements, as their identities were challenged by foreign rule. The legacy of these attitudes persists today, influencing contemporary discussions about race, identity, and post-colonial relations.

Related terms

Colonialism:

A practice where a country establishes control over a foreign territory, often by settling its population there and exploiting the resources for economic gain.

Economic Imperialism: A form of imperialism where a nation extends its influence primarily through economic means, such as investment and trade, rather than direct political control.

Scramble for Africa:

The rapid invasion and colonization of African territory by European powers during the late 19th century, driven by competition for resources and strategic advantage.