Pros and Cons of Imperialism

The word imperialism is derived from the Latin verb imperare which means to command and from the Roman concept of imperium (expansion). The term imperialism was used first time in the sixteenth century, describing the colonial, territorial, economic and military dominance and influence over smaller countries.

Although, imperialist practices have existed for many years, the term Age of Imperialism refers to America, Britain, Japan and Germany, and their expansion of territories in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

The 20th and 21st century has witnessed the freedom of many states from colonization. However, imperialism also has changed its definition, superficially though. Industrialized nations like America and The European countries have now gained cultural, economic, political and military imperialism worldwide.

Economic Imperialism: When a nation takes over another countries natural resources and makes the said country financially dependent, it is termed as economic imperialism. This kind of imperialism is most visible in the frantic race by America, Europe and China to gain a strong foothold in Gulf, Africa and Antarctica for its natural resources.

Political and Military Imperialism: The superpowers are known to force their policies and laws on smaller and weaker nations. This is called as political imperialism. Most of these countries are also known to use covert military operations, and also supply arms to many rebels, to destabilize the governments that do not find favor with them.

Cultural Imperialism: When a nation or a particular belief is forced on the culture and way of life on another country, is called as Cultural Imperialism. This form of imperialism is most evident in the Cuban conflict and the Taliban conflict.

Pros and Cons of Imperialism
The term imperialism has a negative sound to it, as it means a forceful or covert expansion into unwilling territories. However, it has also ushered many smaller countries onto the path of development. Following are some pros and cons of imperialism:

Pros

• Most superpowers brought with them modern technologies and introduced industrialization in smaller nations, boosting the economy.
• Introduced the concept of a democratically elected popular government to ensure political stability.
• Education and scientific thinking was introduced and encouraged.
• Better health care facilities were provided.
• New transportation systems such as rail, road sea and air were introduced.
• New languages, religions and a new way of life were introduced.
• The imperialists countries gained cheap, efficient workforce.
• Food production increased due to better farming methods.

Cons

• Nations that resisted growth or expansions in their territory led to widespread genocide and ethnic cleansing.
• Obtaining valuable natural resources became a bone of contention between the developed countries, resulting in political foul play.
• New religions were forced upon and native belief was discredited.
• Most traditional culture and languages were simply wiped away.
• Natural resources were exploited, without giving actual due.
• Labor was discriminated and forced into slavery, and had their basic rights taken away.
• Many Asians and Africans were shipped to America and England, against their will as plantation slave labor.

Imperialism has its own positive aspects, but in the longer run when greed takes over the reason for helping another nation, it leads to destruction of a nation, and generations to come are severely impacted by the actions of few.