Rodolfo Brandon BernardinoFeb 23. 2010

Period 8Honors World History

Imperialism Essay

Imperialism originated around the 1800’s. Imperialism is the policy of extending

a nation’s authority by acquisition of territory. It was very influential during the 19th

century. This is evident in the history of India. Imperialism itself still has influence in

modern history.

Due to the Industrial Revolution, countries such as Britain desired resources to

support the exponential growth that the Industrial Revolution delivered. Leaving the Age

of Exploration behind, imperialism was born when European countries began to start

colonies to supply the growing demand for resources. There were other factors as well.

Religious missionaries saw imperialism as a chance to bolster their ranks with converts.

Racism and nationalism also had influence due to the superiority felt by the

technologically superior Europeans.

Imperialism was certainly influential during the 19th century. India is an excellent

example in justifying Imperialism’s influence. The country was colonized to provide

land for the growth of cash crops such as tea. The colonials brought modernization, and

modernization crippled the local industries of 19th century India. Due to the stresses of

the colony and its disregard for Indian culture, many high class Indian warriors revolted.

The Sepoy Rebellion is an excellent example of the racism and nationalism that

imperialism brought.

For myself, I believe that imperialism affects the world today. Many

countries show capitalistic agendas with imperialist ideals. In the 1980’s, the United

States invaded Panama in an attempt to protect the US citizens in the country. The

current president of Panama, Manuel Noriega, widely considered to be a puppet of the

US, was arrested and convicted of drug smuggling. The true motive of the invasion was

to secure the Panama Canal, which the United States was dependent upon for economic

activity. The imperialist ideal of expanding influence through acquisition of territory is

clearly seen. This fusion of capitalist and imperialist ideals is common in today’s world.

Imperialism was a turning point in history. A plethora of motives incited

the settling of European colonies. India is an excellent example of how imperialism

influenced history. It also has influence in today’s world. Imperialism is certainly an

influential movement.