What motivated imperialism?
The chart on the right shows the economic, political, and cultural justifications for imperialism, or at least according to the source Traditions and Encounters Vol. 2.
Arguably, states use economic justifications as their main reasons for colonizing as the economic benefits and profit outweigh the negatives greatly. As these states move towards industrialization, they more so require raw materials and natural resources, and colonies are a stable source for just so. These colonies also also intended to consume manufactured products and are markets for states to sell their products in, however manufactured goods did not flow to most colonies in large quantities. But the argument for national interest ultimately won over, as many argued that imperialism was crucial for the survival of the states and their societies, even for individuals' fortunes as well (take Cecil Rhodes for example). As a result of imperialism, states would gain wealth, profit, and prestige.
Arguably, states use economic justifications as their main reasons for colonizing as the economic benefits and profit outweigh the negatives greatly. As these states move towards industrialization, they more so require raw materials and natural resources, and colonies are a stable source for just so. These colonies also also intended to consume manufactured products and are markets for states to sell their products in, however manufactured goods did not flow to most colonies in large quantities. But the argument for national interest ultimately won over, as many argued that imperialism was crucial for the survival of the states and their societies, even for individuals' fortunes as well (take Cecil Rhodes for example). As a result of imperialism, states would gain wealth, profit, and prestige.
One of the most important factors for states to colonize is to expand their empire through acquiring territory. Oversea ports, harbors, and supply stations for the navy were also attractive to states. These ports could be centers of trade and the supply stations would come in handy to the nations when in need. "In an age when socialists and communists directly confronted industrialists, European politicians and national leaders sought to defuse social tension and inspire patriotism by focusing public attention on foreign imperialist ventures. Cecil Rhodes himself once observed that imperialism was an attractive alternative to civil war...." (Jerry H.Bentley & Herbert F.Ziegler, Traditions and Encounters Vol. 2, 2000)
Colonizing has always been a prominent part in history, and winning glory and prestige was always a reason for it. By colonizing massively, it demonstrates a nation's power and wealth. Another very important motive for imperialism was the growing sense of superiority the states are having, this also fuels into modern racism. At the time, imperial nations grew to become powerful and felt that their races were the superior and they felt the need to "civilize" the inferior races. Take Britain's rule in India for example; they were slowly eliminating Hindu and Indian culture, replacing them with European customs. This civisatrace was mainly justified by the sense of superiority. These "superior" races felt inclined to introduce their customs and techniques to the colonies, which included Christianity. Also, these nations have had so much experience with maritime trade with Asia, Oceania, Americas, and other places that they easily colonize because of knowledge about the world and its people.
Colonizing has always been a prominent part in history, and winning glory and prestige was always a reason for it. By colonizing massively, it demonstrates a nation's power and wealth. Another very important motive for imperialism was the growing sense of superiority the states are having, this also fuels into modern racism. At the time, imperial nations grew to become powerful and felt that their races were the superior and they felt the need to "civilize" the inferior races. Take Britain's rule in India for example; they were slowly eliminating Hindu and Indian culture, replacing them with European customs. This civisatrace was mainly justified by the sense of superiority. These "superior" races felt inclined to introduce their customs and techniques to the colonies, which included Christianity. Also, these nations have had so much experience with maritime trade with Asia, Oceania, Americas, and other places that they easily colonize because of knowledge about the world and its people.
Why did imperialism boom in the late 1800s and not earlier?
Something major to consider about imperialism is that colonizing has always been a big part of history prior to the 1800s, however, imperialism really boomed during this period because of one main reason: the advancement of tools and weapons that these imperial nations had. Industrialization played a big role in helping these nations develop into powerful forces in the world, "Even the strongest motives would not have enabled imperialists to impose their rule throughout the world without the powerful technological advantages that industrialization conferred on them." (Jerry H.Bentley & Herbert F.Ziegler, Traditions and Encounters Vol. 2, 2000) Transportation and military technology developed and improved; with important innovations such as steamships and railroads benefitting these imperial powers. The steamships were so fast that they allowed these nations to secure foreign lands with ease. And once these imperialists had gained control of oversea lands, the railroads helped them maintain and organize local economies--to their own advantage nonetheless. Powerful weapons and a strong arsenal also added to the nations' powers, and communication technologies greatly reduced the time needed to help nations seize and maintain these colonies.