The document discusses the history and evolution of imperialism from traditional to modern forms. Traditional imperialism involved conquering neighbors and expanding borders, while modern imperialism referred to establishing colonies far from the home country and ruling over native peoples between 1500-1945. The emergence of powerful nation-states in the 1500s enabled new imperialism, as the nation-state sought to serve and unify the nation. Nationalism, militarism, and protectionism were cited as key causes of imperialism.