The Devastating Power of Western Colonialism Essay

The colonial efforts of an imperialist power leave a wake of suffering and death, usually for the mere purpose of propagating political, economic or military advantages. The culture and status of the colonized is forever altered by the often cruel and violent actions taken by the colonizers during their initial struggle for influence, along with the long-term impacts that slavery, subjugation, cultural appropriation and linguistic imperialism have over a colonized region. Hegemonic rule and full-scale imperial endeavors defined English and France foreign affairs during the 19th and early 20th centuries. As the two largest imperialist superpowers of the time, France and Britain made countless imperial acquisitions, not the least of which†¦show more content†¦During the nineteenth century, a significant gap started to emerge between the dominant Western powers an the rest of the world (Marks). The effects of this gap, built in large part on circumstance and chance can stil l be seen to this day. The long term impacts of western colonialism extend far beyond the boundaries of the newly industrialized societies, helping build the foundation for western peri-industrial imperialist culture. The causes for a nation’s transition into a more nationalistic identity are usually complex and nuanced, historically these shifts tend to correspond to reactions to periods of great pressure and struggle or periods of great economic triumph and innovation. It can be difficult to ascertain why an entire culture can become compliant in the often atrocious actions that are carried out through imperialist . A sense of unity within a culture can often emerge as a reaction to a general feeling tremendous power and influence or of great weakness and vulnerability. While cultural unity has the potential to be massively beneficial, it can also have horrific consequences. Attempts towards unification of cultural attitudes towards another group of people is a common tactic towards gaining support for war, but it’s also used as a means for justifying the inhumane treatment of individuals that wouldShow MoreRelatedColonialism has plagued indigenous people worldwide and has spelled disaster for countless800 Words   |  4 PagesColonialism has plagued indigenous people worldwide and has spelled disaster for countless cultures, languages, and traditions. Over the past 500 years there have been different phases of colonization in Africa as well as other various parts of earth. There were many reasons behind exploration and colonization including economic and tactical reasons, religion, and prestige. 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