Colonialism
/kəˈloʊniəlɪzəm/
Definitions
The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.
/kəˈloʊniəlɪzəm/
The effects of colonialism are still felt in many parts of the world.
💡 Simply: Imagine a powerful country taking over a weaker one, controlling its government and taking its resources. That's colonialism – it's like a bully taking your toys and making you play by their rules.
👶 For kids: A big, strong country taking over a smaller country and bossing it around.
More Examples
Historians are still debating the long-term consequences of colonialism.
How It's Used
"The legacy of colonialism continues to affect many countries today."
"We discussed the various forms of colonialism and their impact on global power structures."
From colonial + -ism. Colonial derives from Latin *colonia, meaning 'colony,' ultimately from *colere, 'to cultivate, inhabit.' The suffix '-ism' indicates a system, practice, or doctrine.
The term became prominent during the 19th and 20th centuries with the growth of European empires.
Memory tip
Think 'colonies' – lands controlled by a powerful nation, often exploited for resources.