Rudyard Kipling's 'The White Man's Burden'

Definition

'The White Man's Burden' is a poem written by Rudyard Kipling in 1899, which reflects the idea that Western nations had a moral obligation to civilize and uplift non-Western peoples. This concept was used to justify imperialism and colonialism, suggesting that Western powers had to bear the burden of governance and development in colonized regions, despite the challenges and hardships involved. The poem illustrates the paternalistic attitude prevalent among imperialists, presenting colonialism as a noble endeavor rather than a self-serving exploitation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'The White Man's Burden' was published during a time of heightened imperialism, especially in Africa and Asia, when Western powers sought to expand their empires.
2. The poem suggests that taking on the responsibility of 'civilizing' others is thankless work, as it highlights the sacrifices made by imperialists.
3. Kipling's work was widely interpreted as an endorsement of imperialism, reflecting the contemporary belief in racial superiority and the supposed duty of white Europeans.
4. The phrase 'the white man's burden' has since been critiqued as a symbol of colonial arrogance and entitlement, often leading to devastating consequences for colonized societies.
5. The poem sparked debates about morality and ethics in imperialism, illustrating how cultural narratives can be used to rationalize oppressive actions.

Review Questions

• How does Kipling's 'The White Man's Burden' reflect the attitudes and beliefs held by Western powers during the height of imperialism?
  • 'The White Man's Burden' embodies the paternalistic and moralistic attitudes of Western powers who believed they were superior and had a duty to 'civilize' non-Western peoples. This reflects a broader narrative of imperialism that justified colonial rule as a benevolent act rather than exploitation. The poem reveals how such beliefs were deeply ingrained in the ideology of the time, shaping policies that led to widespread domination and subjugation.
• Discuss the impact of Kipling's poem on public perception regarding imperialism and colonial rule at the time it was published.
  • 'The White Man's Burden' significantly influenced public perception by framing imperialism as a noble and selfless endeavor. It portrayed colonial powers as moral actors who were sacrificing for the benefit of those they ruled. This positive portrayal encouraged support for imperialist policies among the public and legitimized colonial actions, despite the harsh realities faced by colonized peoples. The poem thus played a crucial role in popularizing imperialist sentiments during its era.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of Kipling's 'The White Man's Burden' on contemporary views of imperialism and its legacy in former colonies.
  • 'The White Man's Burden' has had enduring consequences on how imperialism is perceived today, as it has become emblematic of colonial attitudes that justified domination under the guise of civilizing missions. This narrative has been heavily critiqued for perpetuating stereotypes about racial superiority and cultural inferiority. The legacy of this ideology continues to impact former colonies as they navigate post-colonial identity struggles, often grappling with the socio-economic disruptions caused by centuries of exploitation and control. Thus, Kipling's work remains relevant in discussions about race, power dynamics, and historical injustices in global relations.

Related terms

Imperialism:

A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories through colonization, military force, or other means.

Colonialism:

The practice of acquiring control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Paternalism: A practice or policy of restricting the freedom and responsibilities of those subordinate to oneself, with the justification of benefitting them, often seen in colonial relationships.