Tool for Colonization

Definition

Using religion as a tool for colonization refers to the practice of using religious beliefs and institutions as means to justify and facilitate the expansion of colonial powers into new territories.

Related terms

Doctrine of Discovery: The Doctrine of Discovery was an international legal concept that allowed European powers to claim land belonging to indigenous peoples based on 'Christian discovery.'

Cultural Assimilation: Cultural assimilation refers to the process in which colonizers force native populations to adopt Western cultural norms, including religious practices.

Religious Syncretism: Religious syncretism is the blending or merging of different religious traditions or belief systems into something new. In some cases, it occurred when indigenous religions incorporated elements from colonizing religions.