Capitalism, Industrialization, and New Imperialism Chapter 7 – Part 2

Capitalism An economic system designed to increase an individual’s wealth Most powerful economic system in the world Had its start in Europe during the 1700’s Main philosophies – man is competitive by nature – people should be free to pursue their own business interests without interference from the government Only the strongest in business will survive

Industrialization Refers to the shift in the production of goods from people’s homes to factories Once again – began in Europe Was the result of increasing populations in Europe (more people – more goods needed), and changes in technology (new inventions to create goods faster and more efficiently)

Capitalism + Industrialization = the Industrial Revolution

Industrial Revolution the shift from home production to factory production resulted in major changes in society - the rapid growth of “factory cities” - rapid changes in technology - social changes in Europe – political, economic and social Newer, faster methods of production required vast quantities of natural resources and larger markets for the sale of finished items– European nations had to go outside of their borders to find these “New Imperialism” would be the result

New Imperialism European nations colonized different parts of the world to gain much needed resources, markets, to secure trade routes, and to try to gain military advantage over one another A large empire meant business opportunities, wealth, prestige and power Most European nations participated Easiest continent to exploit - Africa

European Powers involved in Imperialism in Africa Britain France Belgium Germany Italy Spain Portugal

European Imperialism lasted about 100 years ◦ short compared to African history ◦ immense impact

Colonial Governments Direct Rule ◦ controlled government at all levels; appointed own officials and cast aside traditional ways of governing ◦ belief Africans incapable of governing selves ◦ paternalism ◦ Assimilation - colonies absorbed into parent nation ◦ Portugal - assimilation but few were allowed to become citizens

Indirect Rule ◦ only used by Britain ◦ British governor and council made laws, but local rulers retained some of their authority  did not replace traditional rulers, but had limited power ◦ Practical reasons - had more colonies  late 1800’s, had 1/3 of African continent, 64 million people  small nation, limited soldiers for colonies

Making Colonies Profitable European nations believed colonies should be self-sufficient ◦ expenses, salaries, military, schools, etc. ◦ tapped resources, built up trade, cash crops ◦ taxes on Africans ◦ Encouraged investment, such as railroads ◦ allowed for effective transportation of crops, etc.

The Impact of Colonial Rule Breakdown of traditional culture ◦ economic and social traditions destroyed  movement to cities, forced to find jobs for taxes, migrant workers ◦ Christian Missionaries - converts caused conflicts within communities ◦ Education - run by Europeans, presented negative views of African culture  those successful still affected by paternalism

The Benefits ◦ colonies developed economically, built roads, railroad, harbors ◦ developed jobs and provided skills ◦ increased literacy, setting up of schools ◦ introduced improved medical care and better sanitation ◦ New crops, farming methods, improved tools improved food production ◦ Ended local warfare grown out of slave trade

A New Generation of African Leaders many Africans graduated from colonial schools ◦ developed appreciation for own culture ◦ viewed European cultures ◦ studied ideas of self-government expressed by John Locke and Thomas Jefferson Colonial governments continued to treat as inferiors ◦ 1900’s leaders organized nationalist movements