Colonialism and Imperialism Quiz

Colonialism and Imperialism

• Colonialism is a practice of domination, which involves the subjugation of one people to another
• Colonialism is closely related to imperialism, as imperialism is a policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization

The Growth of Colonialism

• Colonialism grew in scope during the 19th century, particularly during the Scramble for Africa (1881-1914)

Legitimate Commerce

• The term 'legitimate commerce' refers to the shift from the slave trade to the trade of legitimate goods such as palm oil, rubber, and cotton

The Era of Legitimate Trade

• The era of 'legitimate' trade shifted the relationship between Africa and Europe from one of exploitation and oppression to one of economic interdependence

Economic Reasons for Colonization

• One of the main economic reasons for European colonization of Africa was the desire to access natural resources, such as minerals, and to establish new markets for their manufactured goods

Competing World Powers

• Major world powers, including Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Portugal, were competing for power and prestige in Africa during colonization

The Civilizing Mission

• The rationale for intervention or colonization of non-western peoples like Africa was based on the civilizing mission, which posited that Europeans had a duty to 'civilize' non-western peoples
• The civilizing mission was closely related to the concept of the 'white man's burden', which suggests the idea of responsibility for 'civilizing' non-western peoples

Implications of the Civilizing Mission

• The clear implication of the civilizing mission on the perception of Africans and Europeans was that Africans were seen as inferior and in need of European guidance, while Europeans were seen as superior and civilized

Test your knowledge of colonialism and imperialism with this quiz. Learn about the historical practice of one country dominating and exploiting another, and the policy of using power and influence to rule over other nations or people.