Imperialism in the 19th century reshaped the global landscape as... Show more
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Katy Hodge
12/12/2025
World/Global History
Intro To Imperialism
36
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Dec 12, 2025
•
Understanding the Basics of Imperialism
Katy Hodge
@theonlykatinthehat
1 / 3
Driving Forces of New Imperialism
Ever wonder why European countries suddenly scrambled to control other nations in the 19th century? It all came down to three main motivations: Commerce, Civilization, and Christianity.
Commerce was perhaps the most powerful driver. The Industrial Revolution created an urgent need for resources like cotton, dyes, tea, minerals, coal, and precious metals. European powers invested in infrastructure like railroads and harbors to extract these resources efficiently. They also needed new markets to sell their manufactured goods!
The second motivation was Civilization, which unfortunately was based on problematic ideologies. Social Darwinism ("survival of the fittest") and racism were used to justify imperialism. Nations also sought prestige and military advantages through their colonies, including strategic bases and additional manpower.
Did you know? Projects like the Suez Canal weren't just engineering marvels - they were strategic investments that made resource extraction and military movement faster and more profitable for imperial powers.
The third motivation was Christianity, as missionary work often accompanied imperial expansion.
The Fall of China and Opening of Japan
China's story shows how a powerful but isolated nation fell to imperial pressure. For centuries, China strictly regulated foreign trade, limiting merchants to one port and requiring them to bow to the emperor.
Trouble began with opium - illegally imported by foreign merchants, creating addiction problems. When Chinese authorities tried to stop the trade by seizing opium stores, Britain responded with military force. The Opium Wars of the 1840s and 1850s ended with the Treaty of Nanking and British-French victories that forced China to open to foreign trade.
Japan faced similar pressure but responded differently. After being isolated since the 1600s, Japan was forced open in 1853 when US Commodore Matthew Perry arrived with warships - a classic example of "gunboat diplomacy." Japanese officials recognized their vulnerability against Western military technology.
Unlike China, Japan adapted rapidly. They "cherry-picked" Western institutions, adopting a constitution, modern military organization, and industrial practices. This strategy worked so well that Japan soon became an imperial power itself, conquering Korea, Taiwan, and eventually Manchuria.
Important insight: Japan's response to Western imperialism - adapt rather than resist - transformed it from a potential victim to a major imperial power within a few decades.
The Fall of Egypt
Egypt's path to colonization shows how economic control can lead to political takeover. After Napoleon's forces left in 1801, Muhammad Ali, a Turkish general, stepped in and began modernizing Egypt.
The modernization continued under Muhammad's grandson, Ismail, who pursued ambitious projects including the Suez Canal. However, these expensive ventures plunged Egypt into massive debt to European powers. When Egypt couldn't make payments, France and Britain stepped in to force collection.
The financial pressure sparked anti-European riots in 1882, resulting in deaths in Alexandria. Britain used these riots as justification to occupy Egypt, supposedly to restore order. While Egyptian leaders remained in power officially, they became puppets of the British government.
This arrangement demonstrates "indirect rule" - a common imperial strategy where local leaders were maintained as figureheads while the colonial power made all important decisions behind the scenes. It was cheaper and required fewer troops than direct administration.
Think about it: Many modern conflicts have roots in imperial boundaries and systems. Egypt's experience shows how economic dependency often preceded formal colonization - a pattern repeated across many regions.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
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I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
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Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding the Basics of Imperialism
Katy Hodge
@theonlykatinthehat
Imperialism in the 19th century reshaped the global landscape as European powers expanded their control around the world. This period, known as "New Imperialism," was driven by industrial needs, cultural attitudes, and strategic interests that led to the colonization of... Show more
Driving Forces of New Imperialism
Ever wonder why European countries suddenly scrambled to control other nations in the 19th century? It all came down to three main motivations: Commerce, Civilization, and Christianity.
Commerce was perhaps the most powerful driver. The Industrial Revolution created an urgent need for resources like cotton, dyes, tea, minerals, coal, and precious metals. European powers invested in infrastructure like railroads and harbors to extract these resources efficiently. They also needed new markets to sell their manufactured goods!
The second motivation was Civilization, which unfortunately was based on problematic ideologies. Social Darwinism ("survival of the fittest") and racism were used to justify imperialism. Nations also sought prestige and military advantages through their colonies, including strategic bases and additional manpower.
Did you know? Projects like the Suez Canal weren't just engineering marvels - they were strategic investments that made resource extraction and military movement faster and more profitable for imperial powers.
The third motivation was Christianity, as missionary work often accompanied imperial expansion.
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The Fall of China and Opening of Japan
China's story shows how a powerful but isolated nation fell to imperial pressure. For centuries, China strictly regulated foreign trade, limiting merchants to one port and requiring them to bow to the emperor.
Trouble began with opium - illegally imported by foreign merchants, creating addiction problems. When Chinese authorities tried to stop the trade by seizing opium stores, Britain responded with military force. The Opium Wars of the 1840s and 1850s ended with the Treaty of Nanking and British-French victories that forced China to open to foreign trade.
Japan faced similar pressure but responded differently. After being isolated since the 1600s, Japan was forced open in 1853 when US Commodore Matthew Perry arrived with warships - a classic example of "gunboat diplomacy." Japanese officials recognized their vulnerability against Western military technology.
Unlike China, Japan adapted rapidly. They "cherry-picked" Western institutions, adopting a constitution, modern military organization, and industrial practices. This strategy worked so well that Japan soon became an imperial power itself, conquering Korea, Taiwan, and eventually Manchuria.
Important insight: Japan's response to Western imperialism - adapt rather than resist - transformed it from a potential victim to a major imperial power within a few decades.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
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The Fall of Egypt
Egypt's path to colonization shows how economic control can lead to political takeover. After Napoleon's forces left in 1801, Muhammad Ali, a Turkish general, stepped in and began modernizing Egypt.
The modernization continued under Muhammad's grandson, Ismail, who pursued ambitious projects including the Suez Canal. However, these expensive ventures plunged Egypt into massive debt to European powers. When Egypt couldn't make payments, France and Britain stepped in to force collection.
The financial pressure sparked anti-European riots in 1882, resulting in deaths in Alexandria. Britain used these riots as justification to occupy Egypt, supposedly to restore order. While Egyptian leaders remained in power officially, they became puppets of the British government.
This arrangement demonstrates "indirect rule" - a common imperial strategy where local leaders were maintained as figureheads while the colonial power made all important decisions behind the scenes. It was cheaper and required fewer troops than direct administration.
Think about it: Many modern conflicts have roots in imperial boundaries and systems. Egypt's experience shows how economic dependency often preceded formal colonization - a pattern repeated across many regions.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user