The Failure Of European Imperialism In The Late 19th Century

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked an unprecedented start of political expansion by European countries, The New Imperialism. The time for political expansion had arrived due to major powers rapidly growing. By this time Europe already seized power in India, the Ottoman Empire, and various locations in North America. Numerous attempts were taken earlier in the century, but inevitably failed because of their lack of military power. With the start of the Industrial Revolution and a sudden gain of economical strength, Europe’s imperialism had begun. New Imperialism was a period of colonial expansion by European powers, the United States, and Japan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The period is distinguished by an unprecedented
pursuit of overseas territorial acquisitions

The Industrial Revolution originated in western Europe, particularly in Britain around the late eighteenth century.
Britain was already a world power from its own government, trade and civilization. The scientific revolution and enlightenment period promoted a new view for research and experimentation for knowledge to better understand the outside world. Britain’s culture believed in shared intellect, so they were willing to spread their knowledge to others. Economically Britain was on top from James Hargreaves’ spinning jenny, which was used to weave cloth together. Britain would export vast amounts of cloth throughout Europe which would bring in tons of profit. Soon Britain would start trade with its neighbors in Asia; India and China. As trade grew, dilemmas would occur with transportation. Using animals and human labor for transporting was expensive. Although transportation by sea was inexpensive, it would take too long for exports to reach its destination. In 1689 Thomas Savery invented the steam engine, which was originally used to pump water out of mines, but the idea was tampered with throughout the years and was patented by James Watt in 1769. Soon this invention would be used for transportation methods such as steam powered locomotives. This was the initial start of the Industrial
Revolution.

Europeans used the theory of social darwinism to influence the spread of western culture, technology and ideals. The gap between the industrializing and nonindustrial regions grew larger and larger. The European imperialists explained to Africa and Asia that their societies would suffer and eventually die off if they did not modernize or reform with western ideologies. Asia saw through the European lies and did not want anything to do with western societies in Europe because they foresaw the plans of Europe. China saw Europeans as a disturbance who wanted to sneak into power to overthrow their government, not trade.

The spread of western culture was doing well, although few resisted their influences. African and Asian leaders responded to imperialist acts as acts of hostility and tried to drive them out of their perspective lands. Rebellions sparked all over, but they were no match for the west’s superior military force at the time. Europe’s strategy was to divide and conquer lands indirectly by granting some local civilians special powers and privileges. The ones endowed with these powers knew the strength of the western forces and attempted to influence their people to reform their culture slightly to mirror that of the west. It was easier for Europe to control lands by using this method.

Britain was a key figure to bring the countries of the world together through trade. The technological boom from the Industrial Revolution forced British manufacturers to seek exportation from outside countries. Britain’s desire to spread ideas, technology, and become a worldwide leader in trade was the kickstart to the new imperialism. As a result, Western Europe conquered large empires in Africa and Asia due to its advanced military. With these territories seized, Europe was also able to become the backbone of a global trade economy.