New Imperialism In The Late 19th Century

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New Imperialism Imperialism in the late 19th century and early 20th century became widespread throughout Europe, predominantly between the four major European powers of Germany, England, and France. As Britain was a leading industrial and commercial powerhouse, countries such as Germany and France felt the need to expand their empire in order to maintain the balance of power. Imperialism opened up new doors to trade as well as the potential to exploit natural resources. New Imperialism became more than just an economic benefit, as the major powers of Europe increasingly expanded as a political statement in order to try to appear more powerful. Countries felt that they had to keep up with each other in order to maintain a balance of power…show more content…
Imperialism motivations stemmed from economic benefits, domestic problems, and necessary stability tool to keep other countries on the same level. Imperialism opened a new opportunity with economics, as it allowed for an enlarged market through international trading. As a successful industrial power in the early 19th century, England looked to imperialism as a way to satisfy their economical needs. In Australia, the British believed that the Australians wanted British protection, and relied on Britain for its economy through commercial goods. In return, England would be able to exploit the land riches from these two areas, as well as extending their control. They felt that they had a right to develop these countries, by expanding trade and opening it up to Europe. England also had to appease their finance, as there were increasing concerns over how secure Britain’s foreign investments were. (1,92). Since Germany and France were expanding their economic resources, there was fear in England that interest rates would depress. (1, 92). Germany also saw potential commercial and industrial

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