European countries had colonised many land masses from the late 14th century to the middle of 20th century. They plundered resources and raw materials from these colonies to massively produce finished goods in their respective factories and industries. The industries started dominating the economy with their major aim to produce more and make profit.
The excess wealth acquired by looting the colonies were used to build more factories, railways, steamships. This enabled better means of communication by improving the modes of transportation. This further facilitated the expansion of European colonies in Africa and other places.