Imperialism Summary Guide (1800–1914)
Key Vocabulary
Imperialism — The extension of a nation’s power over other lands
through conquest, political control, or economic dominance.
Protectorate — A political unit that depends on another government
for its protection.
Sphere of Influence — An area where a foreign power claims
exclusive rights to trade and investments.
Indirect Rule — Local rulers maintain authority but must follow
colonial policies.
Direct Rule — Colonies are governed directly by officials from the
mother country.
Concession — Granting rights/resources to a foreign power.
Extrateritoriality — Foreigners are subject to their own nation’s laws,
not local laws.
Dollar Diplomacy — U.S. policy of using financial investment to
control other nations.
Sepoy — Indian soldier serving under British control.
Annex — To add territory to an existing political unit.
I. Motivations for the New Imperialism
1. Economic — Need for raw materials (cotton, rubber, oil, sugar, coffee)
and markets for manufactured goods.
2. Political/Strategic — National prestige, military bases, and control of
trade routes (e.g., Suez Canal, Panama Canal).
3. Social/Darwinism & Racism — Belief in racial and cultural
superiority; argued they had a “duty” to civilize others.
4. Cultural/Missionary — Spread of Christianity, Western education, and
technology.
Key Vocabulary
Imperialism — The extension of a nation’s power over other lands
through conquest, political control, or economic dominance.
Protectorate — A political unit that depends on another government
for its protection.
Sphere of Influence — An area where a foreign power claims
exclusive rights to trade and investments.
Indirect Rule — Local rulers maintain authority but must follow
colonial policies.
Direct Rule — Colonies are governed directly by officials from the
mother country.
Concession — Granting rights/resources to a foreign power.
Extrateritoriality — Foreigners are subject to their own nation’s laws,
not local laws.
Dollar Diplomacy — U.S. policy of using financial investment to
control other nations.
Sepoy — Indian soldier serving under British control.
Annex — To add territory to an existing political unit.
I. Motivations for the New Imperialism
1. Economic — Need for raw materials (cotton, rubber, oil, sugar, coffee)
and markets for manufactured goods.
2. Political/Strategic — National prestige, military bases, and control of
trade routes (e.g., Suez Canal, Panama Canal).
3. Social/Darwinism & Racism — Belief in racial and cultural
superiority; argued they had a “duty” to civilize others.
4. Cultural/Missionary — Spread of Christianity, Western education, and
technology.
