The Role Of Economic, Cultural And Social Forces In The Age Of New Imperialism

The age of new imperialism, created by the hunger for power and wealth, left a legacy of resistance and unfair occupation. Economic ambitions, cultural diffusion, and rigid social structures help analyze the reasoning behind the imperial powers’ actions during this era. These nations were not only driven by the desire for economic growth, but also by social hierarchy. They believed their higher status justified their actions and allowed them to treat people with disrespect. These economic, cultural, and social forces played a major role in the lasting impacts of imperialism. In the age of new imperialism, imperial powers undoubtedly possessed a superiority complex. Throughout history, people from different cultures have exchanged ideas and …show more content…
Nevertheless, the real reason for this was because the Europeans considered themselves racially as well as culturally superior to these “backward” nations and believed it was their duty to civilize them. This viewpoint is called the “White Man’s Burden”. This racist perspective justified the Europeans unfair treatment of people and imperialistic behavior. In addition to the White Man’s Burden, Europeans also believed they were right in advancing into nations with weaker militaries and exerting power over them. For example, China had a weak military but offered a vast market, making the country the biggest European prize. Without China being able to resist, many Chinese regions were taken over by European countries. This form of cultural interaction was driven by a thirst for dominance. Economic motivation also played a key role in the rise of imperialism. The main reason imperialism began was due to the pursuit of wealth and resources. As nations sought to expand their empires, the desire for economic gain pushed them to explore uncharted territories in order to assert their …show more content…
Egypt’s financial turmoil from building the Suez Canal exemplifies the consequences that result from the pursuit of economic gains. Moreover, imperial powers’ thirst for expansion led to consequences for themselves as well as for their colonized regions. Social structures are links and hierarchies that organize a society’s members. Furthermore, these structures determine how individuals and groups interact with each other, distribute power, and assign roles within society. When the British colonized India, they tried to impose their social system onto them, with a strong emphasis on their own hierarchy and traditions. Blatantly, the British wanted the Indians to abandon their traditional customs and culture for a more European approach. Nevertheless, many Indians did not approve of this and initiated a rebellion. These Indian protesters carried out The Great Rebellion (or “Indian Mutiny”) and were victorious in having the British cease their efforts of forcing their standards on them. This example is one of many throughout history that proves social structures often are the root of