Old vs. New Imperialism Overview

Old vs. New Imperialism

• Old Imperialism (16th-early 19th century): Focused primarily on trade and economic exploitation with limited direct control. Colonies were mainly in the Americas, India, and some parts of Africa and Southeast Asia. Local rulers typically retained power.

• New Imperialism (1870s onwards): Characterized by aggressive expansion and direct control over territories in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. This new wave was driven by industrialization’s need for resources and markets.

Motivations for New Imperialism

• Economic: Industrialization created demands for raw materials (rubber, oil) and markets for manufactured goods. European nations sought investment opportunities.

• Military/Political: Colonies were strategic, providing military bases, increasing national security, and enhancing global status. Navies needed coaling stations and strategic locations.

• Humanitarian/Religious: Europeans considered it their duty to civilize non-Western societies, spreading Western culture, law, medicine, and Christianity.

• Social Darwinism: This ideology suggested racial superiority, justifying domination.

• Technological Advances: Improvements like quinine, steamships, and machine guns facilitated colonization.

Imperialism in Africa

• Suez Canal: Britain’s control over Egypt and the Suez Canal was essential for maintaining access to India.

• Scramble for Africa: Following the Berlin Conference (1884-1885), European powers aggressively divided Africa. France and Britain were dominant, but Germany, Italy, and Portugal also gained territories.

• Colonial Powers' Strategies: Various strategies were used for conquest, including military force, economic control, and diplomatic maneuvering.

Imperialism in Asia

• India: Britain dominated India following the Sepoy Mutiny (1857), extracting resources and implementing reforms.

• China: Western nations forced China to open ports and accept spheres of influence. The U.S. promoted an "Open Door Policy," while the Boxer Rebellion (1899-1901) represented Chinese resistance.

• Japan: Modernization during the Meiji Restoration transformed Japan into an imperial power, defeating China and Russia and acquiring colonies like Taiwan.

Imperialism in the Middle East

• Strategic Location and Resources: The region's strategic importance and oil reserves attracted European powers (Britain, France, and Russia) who divided territories for military and economic gain.

Consequences of Imperialism

• Western Impact: A global economy emerged, but colonies faced exploitation for resources and labor. Economic growth in colonies was hindered.

• Cultural/Social Impact: Western culture was forcefully imposed, causing cultural clashes and undermining local industries. Colonies suffered from low standards of living.

• Resistance and Change: Colonized peoples resisted, leading to independence movements in the 20th century.