European Colonialism: Causes, Administration, and Impact
Causes of Imperialism
Demographic Causes
The increase in population generated significant European population pressure. A growing number of people needed to be fed and employed, while resources dwindled. This led to emigration, supported by governments that encouraged white European populations to migrate to the colonies. This favored expansion and the conquest of territories as settlement areas, particularly in the Americas.
Economic Causes
Related to the second stage of the Industrial Revolution, industrialized countries sought raw materials, energy sources, and cheap labor, leading them to invest capital in the colonies. European countries were seeking a solution to the economic crisis caused by the import of U.S. products (e.g., wheat). However, most capital was not invested in the colonies but in industrialized countries. Most foreign trade continued to be conducted between industrialized countries. The benefits of the colonies accrued to a minority, not the general population of the metropolis. The middle class was burdened, having to pay taxes to cover the costs of colonialism.
Political Causes
It was assumed that a state’s importance and prestige increased with the number of territories it controlled. Settlements represented strategic points to be controlled. Soldiers pushed their governments towards colonialism, as promotions were often granted for service in colonial wars.
Ideological Causes
There was a belief in the superiority of the white race and Western culture. A paternalistic attitude of racial and cultural superiority fostered a sense of duty to “civilize” other populations. Protestant and Catholic missionaries spread Christianity. There was also a philanthropic attitude, with a desire to improve the living conditions of the natives.
Scientific and Technical Causes
Geographical expeditions were conducted, exploring Africa and rivers such as the Niger. There was great scientific interest in the flora and fauna of these regions. The colonists possessed superior weaponry compared to the indigenous populations, which aided in territorial control. The Western world also had better transportation and communication systems.
Social Causes
Pressure groups, primarily military and economic, pushed their governments towards colonialism. Some individuals were drawn to the exotic, the unknown, and adventure. However, there were also groups and individuals who were critical of colonialism.
Colonial Administration
The metropolis created specific systems of government and administration for the colonial territories.
Types of Colonies
Exploitation Colonies
These colonies had a small European immigrant population and focused on exploiting resources.
Settlement Colonies
These colonies had a larger European immigrant population. They enjoyed the same rights as those in the metropolis, which were imposed on the indigenous populations.
Types of Government
Colonies
These had no self-government and were dependent on the metropolis, which exercised a strong policy of occupation. They were subject to the economic interests of the metropolis, and authority was held by a governor.
Protectorates
Theoretically, the indigenous populations had their own governments that were respected by the metropolitan government. However, in practice, the metropolis created a parallel and dominant empire, exercising defense functions.
Dominions
These had small indigenous populations and a white majority, which imposed its own government and established a parliamentary system while maintaining dependency relations with the metropolis.
Mandates
These emerged after World War I to manage the dependencies of defeated powers. A colonial power exercised control on behalf of the League of Nations.
Impact on Colonized Peoples
Economic Impact
The situation worsened for the majority of the population. Indigenous lands were expropriated and transferred to the colonizers. Traditional crops were abandoned in favor of plantations that met the needs of the metropolis.
Demographic Impact
The introduction of vaccination, hygienic measures, and the construction of hospitals reduced mortality and led to population growth. However, the subjugation of indigenous populations to forced labor caused a decrease in some areas. Additionally, population growth and resource scarcity led to chronic malnutrition.
Social Impact
Tribal life was disrupted. Coexistence was forced among previously warring groups.
Cultural Impact
Native customs were often unable to withstand the influx of external culture, leading to a loss of identity, beliefs, and traditions. Education contributed to the spread of European languages, beliefs, and customs. Christian missions were responsible for spreading Christianity.