Topic 1: Imperialism

Imperialism has been a major influence on the world since 1750. There were significant differences between the stated ideals of imperialism and the realities of empires. Similarly, the experience of imperialism varied according to place, time, and individual circumstances and responses. The process and outcomes of imperial expansion continue to have ramifications in the world today.

Students undertake a study of one or more examples of imperial expansion from 1750 onwards. They investigate the process of imperialism and its impacts on political, social, and economic structures, peoples, and groups.

Students focus their study on one empire and/or imperial power, that may be chosen from, but is not limited to:

• British
• Dutch
• French
• German
• Japanese
• Ottoman
• Portuguese
• Russian
• Spanish
• United States.

The following are focus areas for study in this topic:

• An overview of the meaning of imperialism in various forms and contexts.
• The political, economic, cultural, and territorial motives for imperial expansion.

Examples include the industrialisation and emergence of market economies, trade, and capitalism in Europe; and nationalism, building of the empire, and militarism.

• The short-term and long-term effects of the process of imperialism. 

Examples include colonisation, power, and authority; the erosion and/or imposition of language; religious beliefs, missionaries, and education; the establishment of treaties; fear and persecution; legal and bureaucratic systems; the ownership of land and resources; the impact on the lives of women; and the movement of people.

• The experiences and responses of colonisers and colonised people to the imperial expansion, and the changes to existing cultures that occurred as a consequence.
• The short-term and long-term consequences of imperialism. Examples include international alliances and tensions; and wars between imperial powers.