Difference between new imperialism and old imperialism

The terms "new imperialism" and "old imperialism" refer to two distinct periods of colonial expansion and imperialism in world history.

Old Imperialism (15th-19th centuries)

Old imperialism, also known as classical imperialism, refers to the period of colonial expansion and imperialism that occurred from the 15th to the 19th centuries. During this time, European powers such as Portugal, Spain, Britain, France, and the Netherlands established colonies and empires around the world, often through conquest, colonization, and exploitation.

Characteristics of old imperialism:

1. Colonialism: European powers established colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, often with the goal of extracting natural resources, labor, and markets.
2. Conquest and colonization: Imperial powers used military force to conquer and colonize territories, often displacing indigenous populations.
3. Economic exploitation: Colonies were exploited for their natural resources, labor, and markets, with the imperial power reaping the economic benefits.
4. Racism and xenophobia: Old imperialism was often accompanied by racist and xenophobic attitudes towards colonized peoples, who were viewed as inferior and uncivilized.

Examples of old imperialism include:

• The Portuguese colonization of Brazil and Africa
• The Spanish colonization of the Americas
• The British colonization of India and Africa
• The French colonization of North Africa and Southeast Asia

New Imperialism (late 19th-early 20th centuries)

New imperialism, also known as late imperialism, refers to the period of colonial expansion and imperialism that occurred from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries. During this time, European powers and the United States continued to expand their empires, but with some significant differences from old imperialism.

Characteristics of new imperialism:

1. Economic motivations: New imperialism was driven by economic motivations, such as the need for new markets, resources, and investment opportunities.
2. Scramble for Africa: The late 19th century saw a "scramble for Africa," as European powers and the United States competed to colonize the continent.
3. Informal empire: New imperialism often involved the establishment of informal empires, where European powers exerted influence over countries without formally colonizing them.
4. Rise of the United States: The United States emerged as a major imperial power during this period, with the annexation of Hawaii and the Philippines, and the establishment of a protectorate over Cuba.

Examples of new imperialism include:

• The British colonization of Africa and the Middle East
• The French colonization of Indochina and North Africa
• The German colonization of Africa and the Pacific
• The United States' annexation of Hawaii and the Philippines

Key differences between old and new imperialism:

1. Economic motivations: New imperialism was driven by economic motivations, while old imperialism was driven by a mix of economic, political, and ideological factors.
2. Scalability: New imperialism involved the colonization of larger areas and the establishment of more extensive empires than old imperialism.
3. Technological advancements: New imperialism was facilitated by technological advancements, such as the development of steamships, railroads, and telegraphs.
4. Rise of the United States: The United States emerged as a major imperial power during the period of new imperialism, while it played a relatively minor role in old imperialism.

In summary, old imperialism was characterized by conquest, colonization, and economic exploitation, while new imperialism was driven by economic motivations, involved the establishment of informal empires, and saw the rise of the United States as a major imperial power.