Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism Definition, Causes & Ideology

Intro: 2016 Election-What role do Clinton and Trump see for America in the World? Hillary Clinton: CNN interview on America’s world position in combating terrorism. https://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/combating-terrorism/ Donald Trump: campaign speech outlining plan to combat terrorism. http://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2016/08/15/donald-trump-isis-terrorism-speech-schneider-pkg-tsr.cnn

Definition of Imperialism Imperialism: When a country controls another country or region. Imperialism almost always hurts the controlled country. It undermines the sovereigny of a people. Control political leaders, the economy (what people make and how), the military and/or the culture (what language people speak, internalized racism, religion, etc.) How? : with military force, violence --- but, also with help of local leaders, and media (newspapers, schools, television, etc.)

Europe and the Rest of the World: 1780s-1950s

Rationale for Imperialism Overseas expansion seen as a cure-all for overcivilization, the economic depression and the closing of the frontier. Battling “others” for land would enhance American virtues and secure profitable markets 1893-economic depression-unemployment was at 25% By the end of the 19th century Britain had 50 colonies France had 33 colonies Germany had 13 colonies U.S. need to get in on that action!!

Reasons for Imperialism (not public) Economic: Expand business interests, want natural resources from around the world (land, coal, minerals) and consumers (to sell goods) Political: competition among imperialists; more colonies = more prestige (masculinity); distraction from population rebellion (think strikes!) Religious/Cultural/Social Darwinism: belief religion/culture is best; everybody should follow U.S., Whites are superior race (ideological white supremacy). Military: control countries to set up military bases; navy needs coaling ports, exert power on regions American Frontier closed: Expand or explode.

Justifications for Domination Imperialists never say: yea, so I’m going to abuse you. Justifications: what is expressed publicly Humanitarian Mission: to help the colonized; under other dominion, or stupid Civilization: the colonized are stupid/backward; must civilize them for their own good! Self Defense: the colonized are a threat! Must destroy/control them before they destroy us Sounds familiar? 

Imperialism Debates