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Imperialism Dbq

Decent Essays

Imperialism is when one country that is larger than others take over small countries for their land and natural resources. The most influential factor that caused conflicts associated with imperialism was economic because European nations wanted to demonstrate their power and prestige to the world. They were forced to acquire new colonies, and be known as “economically-well developed country”. As the world approached 20th century, several powers grew desperate for more land and more control. In 1870s, the Belgian king Leopold sent emissaries to establish trade with native Africans in the Congo. This single act began a flurry of imperialistic activity as the other nations of Europe, Germany, Spain, Portugal, etc.. Many things, positive and …show more content…

In Doc. #1, (The New Imperialism in Africa), says “Expansion fueled by capitalist industrialism and nationalism brought previously unsubjugated lands under European control during the 19th century”. This shows that conquest of Africa provided clearest example of the “new imperialism”, also King Leopold took over Africa to benefit his country by expanding wealth. Another resource we can look at is Doc. #3, (The Rhodes Colossus). It shows the caricature of Cecil John Rhodes, after he announced plans for a telegraph line and railroad from Cape Town to Cairo. This matters because in the eyes of imperialists like Cecil Rhodes, he brought nothing but wealth and fame to European countries and money into the pockets of the …show more content…

Even though trade between nations grew greatly and a world economy developed, it “created bitter rivalries among the imperial powers and hatred among the colonized people.” From Doc. #5 (A Place in the Sun), says “In spite of the fact that we have no such flect as we should have, we have conquered for ourselves a place in the sun.” This reveals that Germans were encouraged to take part in Imperialism. It demonstrates how Germany wanted to keep its empire economically and politically growing, in order to compete with other nations. We could also look at Doc. #6 (Letter to SIr George Grey), announces “I know that you have followed with interest the transactions with interest....by your excellency’s meditation.” This is important because it shows that Moshweshewe request for peace to Sir George Grey, due to situation that Moshweshewe and his tribe has been put into by the invasive Boers and other high-ranking British officials, asking for help to stop their unfair territorial advances.

Imperialism has definitely played a key role in the formation of the modern world, and economic was the most important and essential part of it. The “New Imperialism” in Africa has proven both destructive and creative. And also has destroyed traditional institutions and ways of thinking, has replaced them with the habits and mentality of the western world. The Age of Imperialism was an unforgettable period of time in the history, people wanted

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