Imperialism+MP

Imperialism Michael Peck

PROMPT: How and in what ways were economic and political factors responsible for intensifying European imperialist activity in Africa from the mid-19th century to the beginning of WWI?

__Economic__ 1. Exotic goods 2. Cheaper Labor 3. Growing middle class (larger demand) 4. Industrial revolution created a higher need for raw materials 5. Population boom caused more need for materials 6. Control of lucrative ports 7. Greater self-sufficiency (less need to trade with other nations) 8. Increased demands for exports to developing economies such as the United States 9. Greater Work force (increased shipping)

__Political__ 1. Competition between nations 2. Existing rivalries fought out in territories 3. Chance to establish international stature 4. Control of strategic ports and waterways 5. White Man’s Burden (responsibility to tame the uncivilized people) 6. Asia started to gain colonies 7. Alliances between countries to protect territories 8. Younger empires becoming more aggressive

Thesis: With a new system taking place in the mid 19th century of imperialism, countries were starting to compete with each other to gain stature and resources