Imperialism Basics
What is imperialism?
The policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force
What was the Berlin Conference of 1885?
A meeting where European nations decided how to divide Africa among themselves.
Why was India an important colony for Britain?
It supplied raw materials like cotton and tea and was a major trade route.
What was the main cause of the Opium Wars?
Britain smuggled opium into China, leading to widespread addiction and conflict.
What was a common effect of imperialism on indigenous people?
They lost autonomy and were forced to adopt European culture.
How did the Industrial Revolution contribute to imperialism?
It created a demand for raw materials, introduced new technology for conquest, and opened new markets for goods
What was the "Scramble for Africa"?
The European race to claim African land and resources.
What was the East India Trading Company?
A British company that controlled trade and eventually ruled parts of India.
What was the Boxer Rebellion?
A nationalist uprising in China against foreign influence.
How did European-made borders impact Africa?
They ignored tribal divisions, leading to future conflicts.
What was the main motivation behind European imperialism?
The need for raw materials and new markets.
What role did King Leopold of Belgium play in imperialism?
He brutally exploited the Congo for rubber using forced labor.
What was the Sepoy Rebellion?
A military uprising by Indian soldiers against British rule.
How did Japan react to Western imperialism compared to China?
Japan modernized and industrialized, while China resisted and became weaker.
What happened to most African nations by 1914?
They were controlled by European powers.
What is "new imperialism"?
The late 19th-century expansion focused on Africa and Asia.
What was a direct result of the Berlin Conference?
Africa was divided among European nations without African input.
What was a negative effect of cash crop production in India?
It led to famine because food crops were replaced with cash crops like cotton.
What was the Meiji Restoration?
A period when Japan modernized its military, economy, and government to compete with the West.
How did British policies in South Africa after the Boer War contribute to racial divisions?
They created policies that led to more racism and segregation.
What was the “White Man’s Burden”?
A belief that Europeans had a duty to civilize non-European societies, often used to justify colonization.
How did Social Darwinism influence imperialism?
It justified European dominance by claiming that stronger nations had the right to rule over weaker ones.
What was the result of the Sepoy Rebellion?
Britain massacred rebels and tightened control over India.
What was the Open Door Policy?
A U.S. policy that allowed all nations equal trading rights in China.
How did imperialism negatively impact colonized economies?
Europeans took resources, forced reliance on their goods, and disrupted local industries.