Questions and Answers
According to Kipling, what is the 'White Man's Burden'?
The white man's burden is the responsibility to help civilize unprivileged 'breeds'.
Based on this poem, how did imperialists think of the people in the countries they were taking over?
What might someone say who opposed Kipling's argument in the 'White Man's Burden'?
Someone who opposed Kipling would argue that his real intention was to take advantage and become powerful with money, land, ruling, markets, etc.
What are Americans trying to do?
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What do people actually believe that they are doing?
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Study Notes
White Man's Burden
- Concept originated from Rudyard Kipling's poem, expressing a perceived obligation of Western powers to "civilize" non-Western peoples.
- Refers to the paternalistic belief that imperial nations had a duty to reform and uplift "unprivileged" populations.
Perspective on Colonized Peoples
- Imperialists viewed the locals in colonized areas, such as Cuba and the Philippines, as naive and immature.
- Described the colonized as childish, gullible, ungrateful, and having sinister traits, justifying their domination.
Opposition to Annexation
- Critics of Kipling's argument contend that the notion of the "White Man's Burden" masked ulterior motives.
- Opponents argue that imperial ambitions were driven by desires for wealth, land, and political power rather than genuine altruism.
American and British Justifications
- Both American and British imperial powers justified their actions as efforts to help and "civilize" other nations.
- This rationale was rooted in a belief in the superiority of Western culture and governance.
Actual Beliefs of Promoters
- Many individuals and politicians believed they were enacting a noble mission by promoting their values abroad.
- The complexity of motivations included economic interests and national pride, often overshadowed by the claimed moral obligation.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Rudyard Kipling's poem 'The White Man's Burden'. This quiz covers key definitions and perspectives on imperialism as portrayed in the poem. Explore how imperialists viewed the nations and peoples they dominated.
