Imperialism is nothing new, nor is it exclusively a Western phenomenon. From ancient Mesopotamia to the Romans, the Mongols, the Aztecs, and many others, empires have been a constant throughout much of human history. Yet in the nineteenth century, imperialism took on a more aggressive form. In addition, it was increasingly linked to industrialization and nationalism.
Task:
Choose one of the leading nineteenth-century imperial powers (Great Britain, France, Russia, or the United States) covered in the materials found in Unit 6. Drawing on those materials, please answer all of the following questions:
Roll Playing: Imagine you are a citizen of one of the imperial powers listed above. You are having a conversation with a journalist who is asking your opinion on your country’s recent acquisition of territories abroad. The reporter asks:
How do you feel about your country annexing territories in other parts of the world? Is it a positive or negative for your country? Are you ambivalent about it? Be specific.
In your own experience as a citizen, does the expansion of your country’s territory increase national pride? Remember, try to see it through the eyes of a citizen in the 19th century, not that of a student in the 21st