The Age of Imperialism

Imperialism The domination by one country of the political, economic, and cultural life of another country or region. In other words, one country takes over another country or area. Example: Before the United States was created, the American colonies were owned and controlled by Great Britain. Before Hawaii was a state, it was an independent kingdom. It was conquered by the United States in the 1800’s

African Colonies 1850

African Colonies 1914

Motives for Imperialism Economic Motives the desire to make money the desire to expand or control foreign trade the desire to create new markets to sell goods. to acquire raw materials or cheap labor To export technologies

Political Motives Political Motives: to gain power To expand territory To exercise military force To gain prestige by winning colonies To boost national pride and security

Religious Motives 3. Religious Motives: The desire to spread Christianity To spread European values and moral beliefs To educate people of other cultures To end the slave trade

Exploritory Motives Exploratory Motives: The desire to explore unknown territories To conduct scientific research To search for medical causes and cures To go on an adventure To investigate unknown cultures (people)

Ideological Motives Ideological Motives: Based on cultural values that the white race was superior to other “primitive “cultures The belief that Europeans should civilize non-European people The belief that great nations should have empires Believe in the survival of the fittest. (In this particular case, the strongest nations will survive)

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