Light

Imperialism in East Asia

Definition

This refers to the period of colonial expansion by Western powers into East Asia during the 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to political and economic domination over several Asian countries.

Analogy

Imagine a popular kid in school (Western powers) who starts taking control of other kids' lunchboxes (Asian countries). They decide what everyone else gets to eat, when they eat it, and how much they get. That's similar to what happened with imperialism in East Asia.

Related terms

Sphere of Influence: A country or area in which another country has power to affect developments although it has no formal authority.

Open Door Policy: A policy proposed by the US in 1899, under which all nations would have equal opportunities to trade in China.

Boxer Rebellion: An anti-imperialist uprising which took place in China towards the end of the Qing dynasty between 1899 and 1901. It was initiated by the Militia United in Righteousness (Yihetuan), known as 'Boxers' in English because many of their members had been practitioners of Chinese martial arts.