ENGLISH IMPERIALISM IN THE EAST

1870-1914

Definitions

Imperialism“extending a nation’s influence directly or indirectly over weaker areas”

ColonialismTaking direct control of an area and turning it into a colony under a nation’s authority

NationalismBelief that an ethnic group should rule itself

Belief that one nation is better than all the others

Britain

Largest colonial empire“Sun never sets on the British Empire”Colonies established to protect trading interests in Africa and AsiaTwo kinds of colonies

• “White” Colonies (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa) given self-rule

• “Non-white” Colonies (India, Africa) under direct rule

European Imperialism in Asia

IndiaBritain trading in India since 1600s

• British East India Co. gradually took over parts of India

British government gradually took over India in the 1800s

• Sepoy Mutiny Indian soldiers revolt against British East India Co. and

were put down by British army

European Imperialism in Asia

Consequences of British Imperialism in India

British educational system established

Spread of English language

Railroads tie India together

Rise of Indian middle class

European Imperialism in Asia

ChinaPotentially huge marketClosed to European trade until 1800sOpium War (1840)

• Britain forces China to open trade to opium

By 1900, China divided into European “spheres of influence”

• Parts of China under European control

Chinese monarchy seriously weakened

Reaction to Imperialism

Rise of Nationalist MovementsIndia

• Indian National Congress (1885)

• Group of middle class Indians begin to demand independence (Mohandas Gandhi)

China• Boxer Rebellion (1900)

• Nationalist Party

Conclusion

Different reasons for European imperialism during late nineteenth century

European imperialism causes reactions in Africa and Asia

European imperialism disrupts traditional way of life and continues to affect the world today