The present world stratification is the outcome of European nations’ colonization and conquering of indigenous peoples, most of whom lived in Africa. Direct colonialism has mostly ended, but the ideology that accompanied it has persisted in people’s cultural identities, as well as their political, social, and economic behaviors. Colonization began with the forcible entry of colonizers into indigenous nations. The conquerors then wholly destroyed their culture and took control of their countries. Each country’s motivations for colonization and expectations for the possible benefits were varied.
Strong countries, in general, oppress lesser nations to further their national interests, whether for economic, religious, cultural, or other reasons. The three principal motivations for colonization were gold, God, and glory, but the main incentives were frequently economic (Osman). The desire to obtain property as well as the natural resources present on the land drove colonization. They also required native labor, which was readily available (Osman). They needed raw supplies from the ground as well as human resources to support their growing economies.
Among all the colonies, the Middle Colonies had a lot of fertile soil. Therefore, they were able to become a significant wheat and grain exporter. Because of the vast forests, the Middle Colonies’ lumber and shipbuilding industries thrived, while Pennsylvania’s textile and iron industries were relatively successful (Young 10). The Middle Territories were the most ethnically and religiously varied British colonies in North America, with residents from England, Scotland, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Germany (Young 10). Because the atmosphere was suitable for growing grain and livestock, farmland was productive and far less expensive than in Europe. Because of the coastal lowlands and bays, the middle colonies provided commercial possibilities where the three regions met in market towns and cities.
The impact of colonial control on the colonies was significant, with significant effects on local economies, cultures, political systems, and how decolonization was carried out also caused issues. Many geographers believe that a colonial past is the most crucial antecedent to underdevelopment.
Works Cited
Osman, Jamila. “Colonialism, Explained.” Teenvogue. 2017.
Young, Crawford. The heritage of colonialism. Routledge, 2018, pp.9-26.