Imperialism Basics
The practice of a stronger country dominating a weaker one for political or economic gain.
What is imperialism?
This ruler claimed controlling the Congo would bring “civilization” and Christianity.
Who was King Leopold II?
This poem encouraged Europeans to take responsibility for “civilizing” other nations.
What is The White Man’s Burden?
India was called this because of its importance to Britain’s economy.
What is “The Jewel in the Crown”?
This feeling of pride and loyalty to one’s nation helped drive European countries to compete for colonies around the world.
What is nationalism?
Using a weaker country’s resources and people for profit.
What is exploitation?
Leopold described African societies as lacking this to justify European control.
What is civilization (or knowledge of European culture)?
Kipling’s argument would most strongly support this broader European idea of expansion.
What is imperialism?
Raw materials from India were turned into these in British factories.
What are finished goods?
Britain limited this by banning protests and controlling newspapers.
What are rights or freedoms?
An economic motive for imperialism.
What was the desire for raw materials?
These two materials were what Belgium was truly after.
What is Rubber and Ivory?
This group of people is being told to take on the “burden” in Kipling’s poem.
Who are Europeans (or imperial powers)?
Indian farmers were forced to grow these instead of food crops.
What are cash crops?
The British spread their language, education, and culture through this process.
What is Westernization?
A political motive for imperialism.
What is competition between nations and desire for power?
Leopold framed imperialism as a moral duty to spread this trio of ideas.
What are commerce, Christianity, and civilization?
The poem suggests colonized people are described in a negative way, such as being this or this.
What is Half Devil, Half Child?
Forcing farmers to grow cash crops instead of food contributed to this major crisis.
What are famines?
This group of English-educated Indians emerged under British rule. (Hint: Nike socks)
Who are Indian Elites?
The belief that one culture is superior to others.
What is cultural superiority?
Leopold believed Belgium had this to control the Congo.
What is a destiny?
The main idea of the poem is that imperialism is not about profit, but about this type of responsibility.
What is a duty (or responsibility to “help” others)?
This Indian person was given "governing" power by British officials.
What is a Viceroy?
This growing movement eventually challenged British rule and led toward independence.
What is Indian nationalism?