19th Century Colonialism: Causes and Impact
19th Century Colonialism
Colonialism, a phenomenon as old as history, involves a powerful state (metropolis) conquering other lands to extract wealth, settle surplus population, and spread its lifestyle. In the 19th century, European powers established colonial empires in Africa and Asia. This era of colonialism was unique due to its link to the Industrial Revolution. Europe’s demand for raw materials and new markets for manufactured goods fueled this expansion.
This period also saw rapid empire building, which hindered cultural assimilation. Unlike previous colonial eras, there was less interbreeding between colonizers and the colonized, as many colonies were inhabited by non-white populations.
Marxist historians refer to 19th-century colonialism as imperialism, emphasizing the economic drivers. Lenin’s thesis further solidified this view, arguing that imperialism was a product of capitalism, expanding wealth in the developed world at the expense of the developing world.
Causes of Colonialism
Colonialism in the 19th century was driven by political, strategic, economic, and ideological factors.
Political and Strategic Reasons
The creation of new national states and the power shifts after German unification played a significant role. Nations believed that possessing colonies demonstrated their greatness. France, after its defeat in the Franco-Prussian War, sought to regain its status as a great power through colonial expansion. Additionally, powers aimed to control strategically important locations before their rivals.
Economic Reasons
The Industrial Revolution created a need for raw materials and secure markets for industrial products. The Second Industrial Revolution led to overproduction, causing an economic crisis. Protectionist measures were adopted, making colonial markets essential for national industries. The growing working population also needed new opportunities, leading to settler colonies in areas with suitable climates for Europeans (North Africa, South Africa, and Australia). Emigration to Canada, the USA, and the Southern Cone of Latin America also occurred.
Ideological Reasons
The belief in the superiority of the white race and European civilization was a key factor. Colonizers felt a moral obligation to spread their development to the rest of the world. Medical advancements, such as the discovery of quinine, and progress in transportation (railways, steamships, and artificial channels) made colonization possible in previously inhospitable regions.