Question

Comment on imperialism in the nineteenth century. Why were the industrialized nations pursuing imperialism?

Answer 1

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The concept of Imperialism in Nineteenth Century

Abstract

Let us understand the history of Imperialism that was happened in 19th Century.

In historical studies, imperialism generally refers to the policy of European countries, and primarily of the UK during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, aiming at the expansion of their power and influence over other continents.

Therfore the term imperialism originated and began to be used as a political and historical concept.

If we try to find out the root , the Age of Imperialism (1870–1914) although the Industrial Revolution and nationalism shaped European society in the nineteenth century,

Imperialism—the domination by one country or people over another group of people—dramatically changed the world during the latter half of that century.

Imperialism is broder concept than Colonism, For example, the financial influence of France and Germany in the Russian and Ottoman Empires, or such things as British ‘gunboat policy’ and American ‘dollar diplomacy.’

B) Reason behind Industrialized nations pursuing imperialism

Various motives prompt empires to seek to expand their rule over other countries or territories.  

Factory owners in the industrialized nations needed natural resources of other countries. To keep the factories running, they needed coal, iron, gold, silver, tin, copper rubber and cotton. They could get these from colonies.

There are five main motive that forced to industrialized nations to pursue imperialism that can be listed as below :

1) Economic

Imperial governments, and/or private companies under those governments, sought ways to maximize profits. Economic expansion demanded cheap labor, access to or control of markets to sell or buy products

2) Exploratory

Imperial nations or their citizens wanted to explore territory that was, to them, unknown. Sometimes they did this for the purpose of medical or scientific research

3) Ethnocentric

Imperial nations sometimes believed that their cultural values or beliefs were superior to other nations or groups. Imperial conquest, they believed, would bring successful culture to inferior people

4) Political

Patriotism and growing imperial power spurred countries to compete with others for supremacy.

It’s a matter of national pride, prestige and security. Empires sought strategic territory to ensure access for their navies and armies around the world.

5) Religious motives

However Imperial powers often competed with each over for the best potential resources, markets, and trade.

During imperial expansion, religious people sometimes set out to convert new members of their religion and, thus, their empire. Christian missionaries from Europe, for example, established churches in conquered territories during the nineteenth century.

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