Introduction to Imperialism(mid 19th to early 20th century)

What is Imperialism?

• when one nation completely dominates the economy and government of another nation

Four Motives Behind Imperialism

• Nationalism!

• Racism and ethnocentrism (Christian mission + “white man’s burden”)

• Industrialization and capitalism

• Sense of adventure

Spain in Latin America

Cortes in Mexico

Spain vs Portugal

Why?

England’s Dominance

England in India

The “Scramble for Africa”

• first Euro contact was approx mid 1400s

• hundreds of different tribes flourished

• Obstacles: African armies, disease and terrain

• by 1880, Europe controlled 10% of Africa

• By1914: Europe controls 96% of Africa!!!

By1914: Europe controls 96% of Africa!!!

AFRICA 1880

Why Was Europe Successful?

• divide and conquer strategy

• military and technological advantages

• medical developments; especially quinine

• 77% of Euros had died from disease (UCal)

Effects of Imperialism: Conflicts

• Berlin Conference (1884)

• Boer War (1899-1902) in S. Africa

• Post WW I and WW II (impact of nationalism)

• Countries compete for natural resources