European Imperialism

Definition

European imperialism refers to the policy and practice where European powers expanded their influence and control over vast territories around the world, particularly from the late 15th century to the early 20th century. This expansion often involved colonization, economic exploitation, and cultural dominance, significantly impacting indigenous populations and shaping global dynamics. In early exploration narratives and contact literature, the motives and consequences of imperialism are frequently explored, revealing the complexities of encounters between Europeans and indigenous peoples.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. European imperialism began in earnest with the Age of Exploration in the 15th century, driven by economic interests, national competition, and a desire for new resources.
2. Exploration narratives often highlighted the supposed superiority of European cultures while justifying the subjugation and exploitation of indigenous peoples.
3. Many early explorers, such as Columbus and Cortés, documented their encounters with native populations in ways that reflected both admiration and disdain, shaping Western perceptions of other cultures.
4. The impact of European imperialism included not only territorial expansion but also profound changes to social structures, economies, and environments in colonized regions.
5. Imperialism fostered a sense of national pride among European powers but also led to significant resistance movements among colonized peoples who sought to reclaim their autonomy.

Review Questions

• How did early exploration narratives reflect the attitudes of European powers toward indigenous peoples during the period of imperialism?
  • Early exploration narratives often revealed a mix of curiosity and condescension toward indigenous peoples. European explorers portrayed themselves as bringers of civilization while simultaneously emphasizing the 'savagery' or 'backwardness' of native cultures. This perspective not only justified their imperial ambitions but also served to reinforce stereotypes that persisted long after these initial encounters.
• Analyze how mercantilism influenced European imperialist policies and practices during the Age of Exploration.
  • Mercantilism played a crucial role in shaping European imperialist policies by promoting the idea that national strength depended on wealth accumulation through trade and control over colonies. This economic framework encouraged European nations to establish colonies as sources of raw materials and markets for finished goods. As a result, imperial powers sought to expand their territories aggressively, leading to widespread colonization and exploitation across various regions.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of European imperialism on global relations and cultural exchanges that originated during early exploration.
  • The long-term effects of European imperialism reshaped global relations by establishing unequal power dynamics that persist today. The cultural exchanges initiated during this period often resulted in the imposition of Western values on indigenous societies, leading to loss of traditional practices and identities. Additionally, the economic exploitation laid foundations for ongoing disparities in wealth and development between formerly colonized nations and their colonizers, influencing international relations well into the modern era.

Related terms

Colonization: The process of settling among and establishing control over the indigenous people of an area.

Cultural Hegemony: The dominance of one culture over others, often achieved through imperialism, leading to the assimilation or marginalization of local cultures.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that emphasizes the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and the establishment of colonies.