Political Causes Of British Imperialism

Britain was aware that gaining more land could lead to more wealth which would increase their political power so it convinced them to imperial interests. Document 1 states a cause of political where Malay States needed help from the Britain, “... the rulers in the art of administration and to organize a system of government which would secure justice, safety for all, with the benefits if what is known as Civilization”. Another main reason of Great Britain of Imperialism was to achieve great powers Economic expansion demanded cheap labor, access to or control of markets to sell or buy products, and natural resources such as metals and land. British merchants would mostly establish trading posts and warehouses, create transportation, and sought control over strategies, such as Suez Canal which allows boats to cut thousands of miles of travel time between Asia and Europe. This can be evidenced in document 3 and 4 where it states, “...group
Some of the positive effects was, The caste system was removed from India by Britain allowing the people to be more equal, and Britain connected India to the modern world through science, technology, medicine, and modern ideas. Also, Transportation methods and communication were introduced to India by Great Britain. Telephones improved and paved roads, cars, trains, and postal networks.This was a positive effect because it boosted the economy, standard of living and the flow of information and people. This can be evidenced where document 4 and 5 states, “ Means of communication have been developed: innumerable bridges, over 40,000 miles of railway, 70,000 miles of metalled roads…[and]... put an end to slavery, to establish court of Law… the natives a sense of individual responsibility, of liberty, and justice”. These quotes shows some of the way the Britain was positive. However, there were also some negative effects such as Loss of money. Wars with Britain, and against leaders started by Great Britain, took away a lot of money. Also, The East India Trading Company would buy materials at a low price while selling processed goods at a steep price. Britain ruined India's previous economy and industries as a result of Britain forcing them to import their goods from Britain and not buy their own goods from India. This can be shown in document 7 which states, “They take away our money from year to