Imperialism
Imperialism, the practice by which powerful nations or peoples seek to extend and maintain control or influence over weaker nations or peoples, has been highly debated over the history of the World (Wesseling, H. L, 1997). In 1492, Columbus discovered the New World and, in 1498, Vasco-da-Gama discovered a sea route to India (Smith, Simon C. 1998). These discoveries helped a lot in the European expansion. The colonization of Asia, Africa and America began in the 16th century. During this time, the Africans were taken as slaves by Europeans to America. With the start of the Industrial Revolution, obtaining of raw materials became important for the European countries and there was an increase in the production of manufactured goods. This increase required the need to export surplus goods to the industrially backwards areas Asia, Africa and America. The economic system that was born as a result of the Industrial Revolution is called Capitalism (Wesseling, H. L. 1997). It is one of the important factors that gave rise to Imperialism. European countries wanted to acquire more and more areas in Asia and Africa. Imperialism and Colonialism were propagated by explorers, adventurers, Christian missionaries and traders. The i
Imperialism is sometimes used interchangeably with colonialism, which implies formal political control, involving territorial annexation, and loss of sovereignty (Chris Talbot, 1999). They resorted to inhuman practices such as isolation and discrimination on the basis of color, race, religion, etc. Imperialism had become a fashion during that period. The capitalists followed two methods to earn huge profits - maximum production and minimum wages to workers (Walvin, J 1997). Subsequently, the increase in production led to a search for new markets, new sources of raw material and new places for investing capital. There are several reasons why the powerful nations competed with each other to gain colonies. In 19th century, Germany and Italy emerged as unified nations in Europe. The England's interest of China example shows the both raw material and market profits in it. This resulted in poverty in the colony and enrichment of the imperialist nation. Besides, a different outcome is the exploitation of natural resources. Secondly, political side of imperialism is the most conspicuous part, which allow beginning new trends among the nations. According to them, it was only through political conquest and subjugation that the backward people of Asia and Africa could be civilized.
Common topics in this essay:
Smith Simon,
Industrial Revolution,
Imperialism Colonialism,
Chris Talbot,
Asian African,
Asia Africa,
Europeans Deepti,
Social Darwinists,
Hong Kong,
Europe Consequently,
asia africa,
natural resources,
smith simon 1998,
smith simon,
european countries,
simon 1998,
wesseling 1997,
industrial revolution,
increase production,
raw material,
imperialist powers,
resources manufactured markets,
natural resources manufactured,
asia africa america,
colonies natural resources,
|
Acceptance Essays
