Imperialism
/ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪzəm/
Definitions
A policy or ideology of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force, often involving the establishment of colonies or economic domination.
/ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪzəm/
A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force.
European imperialism in the 19th century led to widespread colonialism.
💡 Simply: Think of it like when a big kid tries to take over the playground by controlling all the toys and making everyone follow their rules. It's about a strong country controlling other, weaker countries for its own benefit.
👶 For kids: When a big country takes control of other countries and makes them do what they want.
More Examples
Critics argued that the country's foreign policy was a form of economic imperialism.
The aftermath of imperialism still affects many nations today.
Anti-imperialist movements emerged in response to colonial expansion.
How It's Used
"Historians debate the causes and consequences of British imperialism in the 19th century."
"The study of imperialism reveals patterns of exploitation and resistance across different cultures."
Idioms & expressions
Age of Imperialism
The period of European history, generally considered to be from the 18th century to World War I, characterized by a rapid expansion of European empires.
"The Age of Imperialism saw the carving up of Africa among European powers."
Economic Imperialism
A situation in which one country exerts economic power over another, often through control of trade or investment.
"Some argue that globalization has created a form of economic imperialism."
From Latin *imperium* ("command, power") and derived through French and English, denoting the policy of extending a nation's power and influence through diplomacy or military force.
The term became prevalent during the late 19th century, describing the expansion of European powers overseas and the establishment of colonial empires.
Memory tip
Imagine a king (emperor) extending his realm (empire) outwards, often using force and control.