The Berlin Conference, held in 1884-1885, was a meeting of European powers to regulate the colonization and trade in Africa. It aimed to prevent conflict among European nations over African territories and resulted in the arbitrary partitioning of the continent without regard for indigenous cultures or boundaries. The conference is often criticized for its role in facilitating European imperialism and exploitation in Africa. Ultimately, it set the stage for the colonial rule that would have lasting impacts on the continent.
The Congress of Vienna, held in 1814-1815, primarily focused on restoring European stability and redrawing national boundaries after the Napoleonic Wars. While its direct effects on Africa were limited, it indirectly influenced the continent by setting the stage for increased European imperialism and the scramble for Africa in the late 19th century. The principles of balance of power and territorial claims established at the Congress encouraged European nations to expand their empires, leading to the colonization and exploitation of African territories. Consequently, the decisions made in Vienna contributed to the geopolitical dynamics that would shape Africa's future.
capitalism
engels
Portuguese exploration of West Africa in the 1400s led to the establishment of trade routes and the early transatlantic slave trade, as they sought valuable resources like gold and ivory. This exploration also facilitated the spread of European influence in the region, including the introduction of Christianity. Additionally, it marked the beginning of European colonization and exploitation of African territories, setting the stage for significant socio-economic changes in both Africa and Europe.
Rural transformation refers to social,polilitical,economic and demographic changes from one stage to another. Rural transformation refers to social,polilitical,economic and demographic changes from one stage to another. Rural transformation refers to social,polilitical,economic and demographic changes from one stage to another. Rural transformation refers to social,polilitical,economic and demographic changes from one stage to another.
Great Britain led the way in the Age of Imperialism, particularly after the Suez Canal conflict in 1882. The British intervention aimed to secure control over the canal, which was crucial for trade routes to India and other colonies. This event marked a significant expansion of British imperial interests in Egypt and the broader region, setting the stage for increased colonial ambitions throughout Africa and Asia in the following decades.
Imperialism, according to most proponents of its causes, is the final stage of advanced capitalism. There was no advanced capitalism until the end of the 19th century. Even Adam Smith wrote about capitalism only in the late 18th century. Smith had no predictions on how capitalism might develop into imperialism.
Lenin held it as the "highest stage of capitalism"
Between 1897 and 1914, the world experienced significant political, social, and technological changes. This period saw the rise of imperialism, with European powers expanding their empires in Africa and Asia, leading to increased tensions and rivalries. The Industrial Revolution continued to transform economies and societies, while movements for social reform, women's suffrage, and workers' rights gained momentum. Ultimately, this era set the stage for the outbreak of World War I in 1914, as alliances and hostilities among nations intensified.
Imperialism contributed to the outbreak of World War I by intensifying competition among European powers for colonies, resources, and global dominance. The race for empire created rivalries and tensions, particularly in regions like Africa and Asia, leading to conflicts over territorial claims. These imperial ambitions also fueled nationalism within countries, as nations sought to assert their power and prestige. Ultimately, the entanglement of alliances and the desire for expansion set the stage for a larger conflict when a crisis emerged in the Balkans.
Imperialism and Industry were created by Europeans. They weren't inherently Pro-European or Pro-Western, but the fact that Europeans or Western Civilization (whatever you choose to call it) made them benefit Europe. Other cultures (mostly Asian ones) have used Imperialism to their advantage. Before 1429, China had a massive treasure fleet that they used to map out all of East Africa as well as almost all of the Indian Ocean. But they chose to burn this treasure fleet. Had the Chinese not done this, they probably would have discovered America by around the same time Columbus did. They could have created their own version of imperialism. Similarly, today China is economically colonizing Africa. They are retrieving resources and labor while at the same time gaining influence in Africa. Over half of South Sudan's roads are in Chinese-owned oil fields. Japan formed a Political Colonial Empire during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries and it became a rising power on the world stage. But to answer your original question, European Colonialism (driven by imperialism) is why today we live in a Western Dominated World. For more info, check out Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond.