Question

What were the causes for Imperialism ?

Answer 1

The following are the causes for the rise of Imperialism.
1. Industrial revolution :
Industrial revolution in European countries resulted in a great increase in production. They could not find market in Europe as they followed "Protective Trade Policy". The purchasing power of the people was also low due to capitalism. It also introduced a great progress in the means of transport and communication. The telegraph system linked the whole world and reduced great distances. The development or railways speeded up the movement of goods between colonies and the mother country so it was easier to bring raw materials and to take the finished goods to the markets in the interior parts of the colonies in Asia and Africa.
2. National security :
The sense of National Security and self sufficiency among the European political groups instigated colonial imperialism. The Presidents or Prime Ministers worked towards colonial imperialism owing to the influence of business or some other interest.
3. Nationalism :
The later part of the 19th Century saw extreme nationalistic ideals in Europe. Many nations developed pride over their race, culture and language and started feeling superior to other countries. They felt that acquisition of colonies would enhance the prestige of their nations. Imperialism became the fashion of the age. The Europeans felt that it was 'white man's burden' to civilise the backward and uncivilised native people of African and Asia.
4. Balance of Power :
The concept of Balance of power was one of the driving factors. European Nations were forced to acquire new colonies to achieve a balance with their neighbours and competitors.
5. Discovery of new routes :
The discovery of new routes of African and Asian continents promoted the spirit of imperialism. The discovery of sea routes paved the way for the traders and soldiers to exploit the abundant wealth of the countries.
6. Growth of population :
The population growth which resulted in unemployment and forced the Europeans to emigrate in search of new lands and careers abroad.
7. State of Anarchy :
There was no international organisation to enact and enforce laws for nations to maintain peace and security among countries before the First World War. This state of anarchy supported the colonial race.