Old and new imperialism

A fascinating topic!

Old Imperialism and New Imperialism are two distinct periods in the history of imperialism, which refers to the policy of extending a country's power and influence through the establishment of colonies, territories, and economic dominance over other regions.

Old Imperialism (15th-19th centuries)

Old Imperialism, also known as classical imperialism, refers to the period of colonial expansion that began in the 15th century and lasted until the mid-19th century. During this time, European powers such as Portugal, Spain, Britain, France, and the Netherlands established colonies in various parts of the world, including the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.

The main motivations for old imperialism were:

1. Economic interests: Colonies provided access to new markets, resources, and labor.
2. Strategic interests: Colonies helped to secure trade routes, protect national interests, and expand military influence.
3. Ideological interests: European powers believed in their cultural and moral superiority, and saw colonization as a way to spread Christianity, civilization, and Western values.

Examples of old imperialism include:

• The Spanish conquest of the Americas (1492-1600s)
• The Portuguese colonization of Brazil (1532-1822)
• The British colonization of India (1757-1947)
• The French colonization of North Africa and Southeast Asia (1830s-1950s)

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

New Imperialism, also known as late imperialism, refers to the period of colonial expansion that began in the late 19th century and lasted until the mid-20th century. During this time, European powers, particularly Britain, France, Germany, and Belgium, continued to expand their colonial empires, while the United States and Japan also emerged as major colonial powers.

The main motivations for new imperialism were:

1. Economic interests: Colonies provided access to new resources, markets, and investment opportunities.
2. Strategic interests: Colonies helped to secure trade routes, protect national interests, and expand military influence.
3. Ideological interests: European powers and the United States believed in their cultural and moral superiority, and saw colonization as a way to spread Western values, democracy, and capitalism.

Examples of new imperialism include:

• The Scramble for Africa (1881-1914), during which European powers carved up the continent into colonies
• The British colonization of Africa (1880s-1960s)
• The French colonization of Indochina (1862-1954)
• The Japanese colonization of Korea and Taiwan (1910-1945)

Key differences between Old and New Imperialism

1. Scale: New Imperialism was more extensive and widespread than Old Imperialism, with more colonies and territories under European control.
2. Motivations: While economic interests remained important, new imperialism was also driven by ideological and strategic interests, such as spreading Western values and protecting national interests.
3. Technological advancements: New Imperialism was facilitated by technological advancements, such as steamships, railroads, and telegraphs, which enabled faster and more efficient communication and transportation.
4. Resistance and decolonization: New Imperialism was met with increased resistance from colonized peoples, leading to the decolonization movement and the eventual independence of many colonies.

In summary, Old Imperialism was characterized by a focus on economic interests, strategic interests, and ideological interests, while New Imperialism was marked by a broader range of motivations, including the spread of Western values and the protection of national interests.