The Failure Of European Imperialism In The Late 19th Century

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked an unprecedented start of political expansion by European countries, The New Imperialism. The time for political expansion had arrived due to major powers rapidly growing. By this time Europe already seized power in India, the Ottoman Empire, and various locations in North America. Numerous attempts were taken earlier in the century, but inevitably failed because of their lack of military power. With the start of the Industrial Revolution and a sudden gain of economical strength, Europe’s imperialism had begun. New Imperialism was a period of colonial expansion by European powers, the United States, and Japan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The period is distinguished by an unprecedented
Britain was already a world power from its own government, trade and civilization. The scientific revolution and enlightenment period promoted a new view for research and experimentation for knowledge to better understand the outside world. Britain’s culture believed in shared intellect, so they were willing to spread their knowledge to others. Economically Britain was on top from James Hargreaves’ spinning jenny, which was used to weave cloth together. Britain would export vast amounts of cloth throughout Europe which would bring in tons of profit. Soon Britain would start trade with its neighbors in Asia; India and China. As trade grew, dilemmas would occur with transportation. Using animals and human labor for transporting was expensive. Although transportation by sea was inexpensive, it would take too long for exports to reach its destination. In 1689 Thomas Savery invented the steam engine, which was originally used to pump water out of mines, but the idea was tampered with throughout the years and was patented by James Watt in 1769. Soon this invention would be used for transportation methods such as steam powered locomotives. This was the initial start of the Industrial