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Clear Target: Explain how imperialism contributed to World War One.
TASK #1: Identify motives for imperialism.
European countries (and the U.S. for that matter) pursued imperialist policies with a passion in the 1800s. These countries were in the midst of modern industrialization, and they needed raw materials for their industries. Not only were they looking for raw materials, they also sought out new markets to sell their goods for profit. Great Britain was undoubtedly the most successful imperialist nation due to their ability to project their military and naval might around the world. This is where the phrase "the sun never sets on the British Empire" came from. However, these policies often led to conflict between countries, creating animosity. Germany came in late to the imperialist game, having only become a unified country in 1871. Below is a map of Africa after the "Scramble for Africa" by the European powers. Take a look and see why there might be some animosity between countries prior to WWI regarding colonial assets.
"The sun never sets on the British Empire."
More food for thought: In 1900, The British Empire covered 1/5 of the land mass on earth.F Image courtesy of: "The British Empire" by The Red Hat of Pat Ferrick" |