Late 19th and early 20th centuries

Definition

The Late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of significant change and expansion across the globe, characterized by the rise of imperialism as industrialized nations sought new territories for resources, markets, and strategic advantage. This era saw European powers aggressively colonizing Africa and Asia, leading to the establishment of vast empires and significant political, social, and economic shifts worldwide. The expansion of imperialism during this time was driven by technological advancements, nationalistic ambitions, and a belief in cultural superiority.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 formalized the rules for the colonization of Africa among European powers, greatly accelerating the Scramble for Africa.
2. Technological innovations such as steamships, railroads, and telegraphs enhanced communication and transportation, facilitating the expansion of empires.
3. The late 19th century saw an increase in nationalist sentiments within colonized regions, as local populations began to resist foreign domination.
4. The United States emerged as an imperial power during this period, notably after the Spanish-American War in 1898, acquiring territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
5. The effects of imperialism during this time led to long-lasting impacts on colonized nations, including cultural changes, economic exploitation, and the redrawing of political boundaries.

Review Questions

• How did technological advancements influence imperial expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
  • Technological advancements played a critical role in facilitating imperial expansion during this period. Innovations like steamships allowed for quicker travel across oceans, while railroads improved transportation within colonies. Additionally, telegraphs enabled efficient communication between colonizers and their home countries. These technologies made it easier for imperial powers to control vast territories and manage their colonial interests.
• Discuss how nationalism affected both imperial powers and colonized regions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Nationalism significantly influenced both imperial powers and the countries they colonized. For imperial powers, nationalism fostered competition among European nations to acquire more colonies, driven by a desire for prestige and power. In contrast, nationalist sentiments within colonized regions ignited resistance movements against foreign rule as local populations sought independence and self-determination. This dynamic ultimately contributed to conflicts and changes in colonial governance.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of imperialism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries on global politics today.
  • The long-term consequences of imperialism during this era continue to shape global politics today. The borders established during colonial rule often disregarded ethnic or cultural divisions, leading to ongoing conflicts in various regions. Additionally, many former colonies struggle with economic dependency on former imperial powers. The ideologies surrounding imperialism also laid groundwork for discussions around globalization and neocolonialism in contemporary international relations.

Related terms

Scramble for Africa:

The rapid invasion, colonization, and division of African territory by European powers during the late 19th century, which resulted in the establishment of numerous colonies.

White Man's Burden:

A phrase used to justify imperialism, suggesting that Western powers had a moral obligation to civilize non-Western peoples.

Industrial Revolution:

The period of major industrialization that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, leading to technological advancements that fueled imperial expansion.