Introduction to The West and the World

Imperialism of Europe had its peak from 1870 until 1914.  With expansion came economic growth.  Expansion of European nations occurred mostly in Asia and Africa.  The causes of imperialism were to discover new markets and raw materials, religious arrogance, military and naval bases, a racist belief in European superiority, and European power politcs.  The reaction of the natives was first to drive the foreigners from their land, but when this failed many natives began to accept European rule.  However, imperialism was not embraced by all Europeans.  Some felt it went against western beliefs of freedom and equality.