The White Man's Burden

Definition

The White Man's Burden is a phrase that refers to the perceived obligation of Western powers, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, to govern and impart their civilization to non-Western peoples. This concept was often used to justify imperialism and colonialism, suggesting that it was the duty of white Europeans to 'civilize' other races, which was rooted in a belief in racial superiority. This notion was heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideas about progress and reason, leading to the moral justification of domination and exploitation of colonized regions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term was popularized by Rudyard Kipling's poem 'The White Man's Burden,' published in 1899, which called on the United States to take up colonial responsibilities in the Philippines.
2. The phrase embodies the paternalistic attitudes of Western nations towards colonized peoples, suggesting that they were incapable of self-governance and needed guidance.
3. The belief in the White Man's Burden led to numerous colonization efforts in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, often accompanied by violent suppression of local cultures.
4. This ideology played a significant role in the justification for wars and military interventions, portraying them as moral imperatives rather than acts of aggression.
5. Critics argue that the White Man's Burden masked exploitative practices under the guise of benevolence, resulting in cultural erasure and economic exploitation of colonized societies.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas contribute to the development of the concept of the White Man's Burden?
  • Enlightenment thinkers emphasized reason, progress, and human rights, which led to a belief that Western civilization was superior. This mindset contributed to the justification of colonial rule as a means to bring 'civilization' to non-Western peoples. The idea was that Western nations had a moral obligation to spread their values and governance structures, reinforcing notions of racial superiority and paternalism.
• In what ways did the concept of the White Man's Burden justify imperialism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
  • The concept justified imperialism by framing it as a noble mission rather than an act of conquest. Proponents argued that colonizing nations were helping 'lesser' cultures achieve progress and enlightenment. This ideology often overshadowed the negative consequences of imperialism, such as cultural oppression and economic exploitation, allowing countries like Britain and France to expand their empires with public support.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the White Man's Burden on post-colonial societies and how it shapes contemporary discussions on race and inequality.
  • The long-term impacts of the White Man's Burden have been profound, as many post-colonial societies continue to grapple with the legacies of colonialism, such as social inequality and economic challenges. The concept has also influenced contemporary discussions on race, as it perpetuates stereotypes about non-Western cultures being inferior or needing intervention. Understanding this historical perspective is crucial for addressing ongoing issues related to globalization, cultural identity, and reparative justice in a world still shaped by colonial histories.

Related terms

Imperialism:

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

Social Darwinism:

A theory that applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' from biology to human societies, justifying racial hierarchies and imperialist expansion as natural.

Colonialism:

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