Analysis of European colonialism and colonization

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Analysis of European colonialism and colonization

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Western European policy of political control, resource exploitation, and settlement in other societies.

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Origins & Early Life

Western European colonialism and colonization was the Western European policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over other societies and territories, exterminating the natives and populating it with Europeans, and exploiting the natives and natural resources. For example, colonial policies, such as the type of rule implemented, the nature of investments, and identity of the colonizers, are cited as impacting postcolonial states. Examination of the state-building process, economic development, and cultural norms and mores shows the direct and indirect consequences of colonialism on the postcolonial states. It has been estimated that Britain and France traced almost 50% of the entire length of today's international boundaries as a result of British and French imperialism. The era of European colonialism can be defined by two big waves of colonialism: the first wave began in the 15th century, during the Age of Discovery of some European powers vastly extending their reach around the globe by establishing colonies in the Americas, and Asia.

Career & Major Achievements

The second wave began during the 19th century, centering around Africa, in what is called the Scramble for Africa. The dismantling of European empires following World War II saw the process of decolonization begin in earnest. In 1941, US president Franklin D. Roosevelt and British prime minister Winston Churchill jointly released the Atlantic Charter, which broadly outlined the goals of the United States and British governments. One of the main clauses of the charter acknowledged the right of all people to choose their own government. The document became the foundation for the United Nations and all of its components were integrated into the UN Charter, giving the organization a mandate to pursue global decolonization.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Historians generally distinguish two main varieties established by European colonials: the first is settler colonialism, where the European settlers seized the land by genociding the natives and establishing their own settlements. Second, exploitation colonialism, purely extractive and exploitative colonies whose primary function was exploitation of natural resources to enrich Europe or Europeans. These frequently overlapped or existed on a spectrum. Settler colonialism is a form of colonization where foreign citizens move into a region and create permanent or temporary settlements called colonies. The creation of settler colonies often resulted in the forced migration of indigenous peoples to less desirable territories.

Notable Quotes by Analysis of European colonialism and colonization

“the destruction of communal autonomy, and the defeat and dispersal of tribal populations”

“[the concessionary companies] brought little capital – a mere 8000 pounds ... [to the Congo basin]”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Analysis of European colonialism and colonization

True or False: “The primary goal of all European colonial ventures was always to establish self-sustaining, equitable societies for the colonized populations.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): Colonial policies were fundamentally extractive; their main purpose was to transfer resources and wealth from the colony to enrich the colonizing power.

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