Introduction
Several civilizations, mainly European nations, championed imperialism. It allowed the civilized nations to dominate and exploit vulnerable countries across the globe (Hobson, 2018). In the 18th century, western European nations such as Germany and France embraced the ideology and expanded their influence to other parts of the world (Hobson, 2018). However, a division between the elites of the Western European nations over imperialism was evident. Supporters used the countries’ needs to justify the ideology, while critics dismissed their views by critically analyzing possible events and their effects.
Western European Nations Justifications for Imperialism
Many leaders and citizens of the Western European nations embraced imperialism. They supported the policy’s political and economic perspectives. First, politically, the possession of colonies was considered an active demonstration of the country’s greatness. For instance, a push for imperialism was meant to earn these countries a world status among other nations actively involved in colonization (Hobson, 2018). In the 1800s, the strength of a nation was determined by the number and condition of its colonies. Their pro-imperialist convictions demonstrated a desire and a call of duty to spread their culture and knowledge to uncivilized people (Hobson, 2018). They presented the policy as a beneficial element for humanity.
Moreover, a new territory away from enemies resonated well with leaders. Through imperialism, the nations had an opportunity to establish coaling stations and safe navy harbors critical in a time of war (Hobson, 2018). Competition with other countries for improvements in the defense industry was considered essential for national security and prestige.
Lastly, there was an urgent need to expand their markets worldwide as industrialized nations. The industrial countries required cheap labor and natural resources abundant in foreign lands. Trade evolutions from local to global markets and competition from other nations threatened the economic conditions of European nations (Hobson, 2018). Imperialism offered an opportunity for these nations to secure trade routes and stabilize supply with demand (Hobson, 2018). In Germany, supporters of imperialism viewed it as a pathway to access critical resources and solve its inequality crisis. Germany could relocate some of its peasants to colonies solving inequalities brought about by economic changes through imperialism. The migration process was expected to reduce the likelihood of political tensions and promote peace.
Critics of Imperialism
In response to supporters of imperialism in the Western European nations, critics, mainly writers, discredited their justifications and outlined weaknesses. The ideology was unethical and crowded with self-interest, which undermined the rights of human beings from other races (Hobson, 2018). In Germany, critics highlighted that the desire to relocate peasants through imperialism was flawed. An empire’s wish to impose itself on other people would weaken the country (Hobson, 2018). Migration would not solve the problem in Germany since they would still be exposed to the same political system. The potential impacts of imperialism, such as cruelty and exploitation, negated its promises among the elites.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the supporters of imperialism heavily justified their views from political and economic perspectives, while opposers dismissed their visions due to its adverse impacts. Most Germans and French viewed imperialism as a competitive advantage for political status and trade. On the other hand, critics opposed imperialism because of its unethical issues, such as selfishness and abuse. Supporters considered it a vital policy for the sustainability of civilized countries. Others felt it was not the right solution to the Western European empires’ problems. The conflicting opinions shaped the imperialism implementation process.
Reference
Hobson, J. A. (2018). Imperialism. Routledge.