How did imperialism affect the world? (Part 1) Notes #20

Imperialism involves a stronger nation conquering a weaker nation, turning it into a colony, and controlling its economy.

A major cause of imperialism for many European nations was their desire for raw materials and new markets.

During the period of imperialism, Europeans had negative views about non-Europeans and their ways of life.

Rudyard Kipling; author of “The White Man’s Burden” This led to the “White Man‘s Burden”: the idea that Europeans had a duty to improve the lives of colonial peoples. Rudyard Kipling; author of “The White Man’s Burden”

As a result, the effects of European imperialism included: the exploitation of colonial peoples and their lands, . . .

. . . the spread of European culture to colonial lands, . . .

. . . and the construction of railroads and other improvements (to roads and bridges) in colonies.

European nations were able to conquer large sections of Africa because they possessed more advanced military technology.

At the Berlin Conference, European nations met to establish peaceful rules for partitioning (dividing) Africa. Berlin Conference (1884)

When Africa was partitioned, the cultural and ethnic diversity of the African people was disregarded, . . . Ethnic map of Africa  Imperialism map of Africa 

. . . which created conflicts among rival African groups living together within colonial-established borders.

Britain was able to control India because differences in language and religion prevented unity among the Indian people.

In order to strengthen its economic and political control of India, Britain built railroads and schools in India.

Britain used a large amount of Indian soldiers, called Sepoys, for their army in India.

When the Sepoys learned that they were being forced to go against their religious beliefs, they revolted in the Sepoy Mutiny.

Britain ended this revolt and officially took control of India as a colony (until after World War II).