1. Rodolfo Brandon Bernardino
Feb 23. 2010
Period 8
Honors World History
Imperialism Essay
Imperialism originated around the 1800’s. Imperialism is the policy of extending
a nation’s authority by acquisition of territory. It was very influential during the 19th
century. This is evident in the history of India. Imperialism itself still has influence in
modern history.
Due to the Industrial Revolution, countries such as Britain desired resources to
support the exponential growth that the Industrial Revolution delivered. Leaving the Age
of Exploration behind, imperialism was born when European countries began to start
colonies to supply the growing demand for resources. There were other factors as well.
Religious missionaries saw imperialism as a chance to bolster their ranks with converts.
Racism and nationalism also had influence due to the superiority felt by the
technologically superior Europeans.
Imperialism was certainly influential during the 19th century. India is an excellent
example in justifying Imperialism’s influence. The country was colonized to provide
land for the growth of cash crops such as tea. The colonials brought modernization, and
modernization crippled the local industries of 19th century India. Due to the stresses of
the colony and its disregard for Indian culture, many high class Indian warriors revolted.
The Sepoy Rebellion is an excellent example of the racism and nationalism that
imperialism brought.

2. For myself, I believe that imperialism affects the world today. Many
countries show capitalistic agendas with imperialist ideals. In the 1980’s, the United
States invaded Panama in an attempt to protect the US citizens in the country. The
current president of Panama, Manuel Noriega, widely considered to be a puppet of the
US, was arrested and convicted of drug smuggling. The true motive of the invasion was
to secure the Panama Canal, which the United States was dependent upon for economic
activity. The imperialist ideal of expanding influence through acquisition of territory is
clearly seen. This fusion of capitalist and imperialist ideals is common in today’s world.
Imperialism was a turning point in history. A plethora of motives incited
the settling of European colonies. India is an excellent example of how imperialism
influenced history. It also has influence in today’s world. Imperialism is certainly an
influential movement.