Imperialism Notes

What was imperialism?

• One country dominating another country or region.

• It is political, economic, and cultural.

• European powers practiced imperialism in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Why imperialism?

• There are three main reasons:– Political motives– Economic motives– Cultural motives

Political Motives

• Nationalism– Extreme pride in one’s country

• Competition between European powers

• Promote their own governments & government systems

Economic Motives

• Economic competition between European nations. Mercantilism?

• Wanted to control raw materials.

• Saw colonies as potential markets.

Cultural Motives

• Christian missionaries went to spread their religion.

• Wanted to make others follow European values.

What was good about imperialism?

• Europeans did build some roads and railroads.

• Schools and hospitals built.

• Medicine helps to cure & prevent many diseases.

What was bad about imperialism?• Borders drawn up by Europeans…did not

take African cultures into account. – Causes ethnic conflict, genocide, war.

• Nations become dependant on European nations.

• Debt from having to borrow to build up a modern nation.

• Economies reliant on cash crops & raw materials.