Ms. Muench Introduction to Imperialism

Scramble for Africa Africa Before Africa After

Remember: In the early 1800s, European nations had just a toehold in Africa, holding only areas along the coast. In the mid- 18OOs, though, Europeans had renewed interest in Africa. This rose, in part, from a desire to create overseas empires, a movement called imperialism.

The Berlin Conference 1886

What is happening in this picture?

What is Imperialism? Definition: When stronger nations try to create an empire by dominating weaker nations. This can include the use of economic, political, or military power

What is the Connection? Imperialism and Industrialization happen simultaneously Can you think of any reasons for this? What did the European countries need?

Reasons for Imperialism Economic: Open new markets Find more raw materials Cheap labor It is all about resources!

Reasons for Imperialism Political Nationalism – love of one’s country Possessing others shows you are powerful Whoever dies with the most wins!

Reasons for Imperialism Religious Missionaries were often the first to arrive in different parts of the world Mission was to spread the word of God Dr. David Livingstone

Reasons for Imperialism Ideological Darwinism – survival of the fittest Social Darwinism – some “people” are naturally stronger and better then others Basically, racism You must civilize the savages Charles Darwin

Reasons for Imperialism Exploratory Most of Europe was well known Asia and Africa offered undiscovered lands Adventure Seeking riches Henry Morton Stanley

Can be Summed Up As… God Glory Gold

“The White Man’s Burden” Take up the White Man’s burden— Send forth the best ye breed— Go, bind your sons to exile To serve your captives’ need; To wait, in heavy harness, On fluttered folk and wild— Your new-caught sullen peoples, Half-devil and half-child. Take up the White Man's burden— In patience to abide, To veil the threat of terror And check the show of pride; By open speech and simple, An hundred times made plain, To seek another's profit And work another's gain. By Rudyard Kipling

Homework Re-read “The White Man’s Burden” and look at the cartoon also named The White Man’s Burden. Why do think that Kipling wrote this? What motivations might he or other Europeans have had? What is the cartoonists impression? Should Europeans be held responsible for the problems that modern Africa faces today?