The British policy of Imperialism at the close of the 19th century was unnecessary as well as unjust. It primarily began during the Scramble for Africa, which lasted from 1881 until 1914. During that time, many imperialist countries wanted to have more influence and power in world matters, and a way of doing that was acquiring more territory to control. Many European powers were involved in this Imperialist battle for territory, including Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Britain. After the scramble many nations wanted more control elsewhere, the main target for Britain being India, which they had been controlling for many years because of the successful trade industry. India was not a well controlled country by its own people, so the British believed that they could easily take it over as a place to sell their goods as well as acquire natural resources they could not find in their own country. The British East India Company was extremely prevalent here, and it aided in Britain controlling India for 90 years. While in India, the British began to teach the people English, and introduced them to British beliefs so they would be Westernized and not the savages Europe believed them to be. The British were appalled by their practice of ritual suicide, as well as their polytheistic beliefs. To stop these practices, missionaries were sent to India to teach them Christianity as well as English. The British were pretentious and believed that the English language was far more intellectual than any language the Indian people spoke or any other language in the world. British foreign policy at this time oppressed the people, and would not let them have a place in government if they did not think like a European. Even if an Indian person was allowed a job in government, it would be of little importance and they would rarely be able to help their country. Imperialism in India was rampant, and they politically as well as economically controlled India in all aspects, while Colonialism would be to assume control over the country and rule it. Colonialism is a practice and Imperialism as the idea behind the practice. The short-term effects of Imperialism in India included oppression as well as the people having little say in their government. The lasting effects of Imperialism in India were westernized roads, new ways of thinking, new culture, education system, and a new form of government. The British policy of Imperialism at the end of the 19th century was corrupt as well as greedy. They did not take control of the air to make it better functioning; they took it over for their own economic interests. The people were oppressed and forced to rebel, thought of as savages, and much of their culture was destroyed. For all of these reasons and more, Britain’s policy of Imperialism should not have lasted nearly as long as it did and Imperialism should no longer exist in the world today.
--Imperialism in 19th Century Britain has brought nothing but crippling power over and violent acts of cruelty to nations around the world. The most prominent act of British involvement in a nations diminish is 19th Century China concerning the Opium Wars. As stated in the Letters of Advice to Queen Victoria, Imperialism in Chinese Culture has been considered to be overbearing and unnecessary in Chinese society. Imperialism continued to diminish Chinese societal structure with the legalization of Opium and the trade of Opium into China. Britain parliament is well aware of the dangers of Opium use, and has taken legal action against the utilization of Opium in their own country. But, for the stark reason of greedy stricken profit, Britain has made Opium use legal in China, and made sure to infiltrate the trade system with mass amounts of Opium. It has been made obvious that Britain has no sense of moral towards others, and does not care about the welfare of the Chinese people. Opium is a highly addictive drug that has killed thousands of Chinese citizens and will continue on its reign until the British infiltration stops. Imperialism is threatening Chinas infrastructure and ability to stand upon its own two feet; the British Empire is crimpling this nation slowly but surely and does not intend on backing down. Initially Imperialism was highly successful for Britain, for the economic system was able to thrive. But the powers of Imperialism have transformed Britain into a mindless machine whose only concern is sheer profit. There is an obvious distinctness to be seen between Colonialism and Imperialism, for the people of the countries being “enslaved” wish their countries to thrive and the people of China obviously do not wish to be under the power of Britain any longer. In the letter, Chinese commissioner Lin Zexu described the British Empire as barbaric several times throughout his complaint to the Queen. It is quite apparent that the citizens and higher powers of Chinese governance are outwardly opposed to British ruling over their society, and wish to have power over their own lands. This begs the question to the British Empire of what gives Britain the right to control Chinese society. --It is not only the Chinese citizens who feel this way about Imperialism; according to Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, Imperialism is a “monopoly.” Imperialism makes the goal of self ruling countries unobtainable, for Britain has far too much power for their own welfare. The fact that Imperialism is for the best for the British Empire and that it is the best method of keeping Britain’s role secure is completely corrupt. The British Empire is secure, but while all other countries around the world are being kept hostage by Britain’s grasp, soon there will be no other nations for Britain to trade with, or have any sort of international relation with. That is when Britain’s nation will crumble from the weight of too much power.
We, the British Islands, have for the last several years, been colonizing and expanding our nation. The empire in which the “Sun Never Sets” has expanded towards Africa, India, and the coasts of China. Our economy and trade is thriving here, but what is happening in these colonies? How are we affecting them? Imperialism has suffocated these countries, destroyed their culture. China, a country we have not even colonized has suffered immensely due to our insatiable desires of wealth and land. In the “Letter of Advice to Queen Victoria”, which is assumed to have been disregarded by her, written by Lin Zexu describes plainly the situation concerning mainly around the Opium Wars. Opium, an addictive deadly drug, has for sometime been banned in our wonderful country because of its well known harmful effects. However, knowing this we have continued to grow it in our Indian colonies, only to sell it to China. This has resulted in detrimental effects in their society killing thousands of people including the emperor’s own son. Yes, we are getting huge profits from it, but where are our morals? Even Zexu was able to point out that Britain was using them for their own selfish desires. He questioned why we need the profit of opium even though it is injurious to humanity when China already provides rich goods that are used for our countries consumption but also trade with others, without them we would not have even this profit. Lin Zexu has termed us as “barbarians” and based on our actions it is truly a fitting term. This may be shocking but it is what we use to refer to them and according to their culture, they are in all respects being generous, because the merchants’ actions should qualify for execution. The British Empire should be creating productive relationships with other countries instead of hampering other’s growth, we can see these affects and yet we continue to clasp our power with a tighter grasp. It is clear that our actions are unwarranted, and that the majority of the Chinese are opposed to our influence on their society. And it is also clear, that we have no right, none at all to be there. If we were not barbarians we would withdraw right away, but continuing to expand seems like the only option for keeping our nation wealthy and secure. But according to Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, who wrote “Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism”, this is not true, he believes that if we do continue our power will become out downfall, our head will be too heavy for our neck. In Zexu’s letter, he wrote, “Such persons who only care to profit themselves, and disregard their harm to others, are not tolerated by the laws of heaven and are unanimously hated by human beings.” Now remains the question are we good Christian humans, or devils injuring other for our pleasure? If the first, when will we stop our attacks?
Editor, British Times Herald: It is with great concern for my beloved nation that I am writing you today. In the recently past months, it came to my attention that certain members of the general public disapprove of and repudiate the imperial aims of Great Britain. Not only is this knowledge disconcerting to a devoted patriot such as myself, but it is thoroughly disloyal to the crown and everything mother England stands for. Expanding our vast empire into foreign territories has only served to elevate England further on the world stage. The economic benefits, which some of the opposers deny, are what has truly made imperialism a worthwhile venture. The new markets and prodigious increase in production Great Britain has seen since it involvement in India alone constitute a solid case for the benefits of the system that no naysayer can negate. While on the subject of India, let me speak directly to Mr. Thomas Babington Macualay, a man who sympathizes with the case of a clearly inferior race and advocates reform of our current practices. According to Mr Babington, who published a journal about his experiences living in India, "To trade with civilised men is infinitely more profitable than to govern savages.". Mr. Babington, I am sorry but I wholeheartedly disagree with you. The flaws in your theories would be apparent to a five year old child, perhaps an Indian one at that. You yourself have admitted that these people that we have rightfully established control over are “savages”, incapable of being properly educated. If they are not civilised now, how will we ever be able to trade with them? You have explicitly stated that education of the Indian masses is an impossible undertaking, if this is so, then yet again I must ask, how will we ever be able to trade with them without controlling them.You have proposed an education plan which consists of creating a class of Indians comparable to our refined English society. If we examine the situation realistically, we will be able to see that the Indian people will never reach English standards. The current system in which the Indians are under our supreme control has resulted in massive benefits for England and the empire, why should we sacrifice our own well-being for the benefit of a subordinate people? Furthermore, an Indian man has come out in support of British rule in India, highlighting the immense gains India has in fact experienced under British rule. Dudabhai Naoroji, pointed to the political improvements brought to India by Great Britain, such as freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Roads and irrigation systems would have also never have been possible in this primitive area without the direction of the British government. Although we are ultimately expanding into India for economic purposes, our presence has also served to work for the greater good of mankind. In conclusion, the future of our nation depends upon the continued success of our imperialist aims. Failure to maintain our current standing and further expand will result in both public humiliation and unspeakable shame brought upon the crown. This is our true duty and calling. In order to preserve our rightful place in this world, we must assert our superiority over those who are inferior. Sincerely, Anna Frenzilli
When humans get a taste of power and control, they often become addicted. It’s human nature, yes, but does that mean we always have the right to satisfy this hunger? No. Britain’s display of imperialism in Africa was nothing more than greed and arrogance at its worst. It is indeed important for one’s country to establish relationships and set up colonies around the world for political and economic advantages, but to conquer a people for the sole reason of creating an empire and expanding dominance surpasses the acceptable limit of development. Africa was a nation of tribal natives, coexisting with one another until Europeans began to take an interest in the large piece of land. With the explorations and reports of explorers such as Henry Stanley and David Livingstone, Africa became a new and exciting place to focus on. With the discovery of diamonds white men flocked there by the hundreds. For Britain, this was the chance for expansion, Queen Victoria was hungry. Social Darwinism played a major role in the quest for Africa. The Africans were seen as the lesser forms of life and it was the “white man’s burden” to civilize and set them right, in the eyes of the British. Their longstanding ties to the land meant nothing and when the overconfident generals of the British barged in, they immediately began their domination. One of the main playing characters on this African scene was a fortune hunter named Cecil Rhodes. Talk about greed and haughtiness, this man was the epitome of both. Violence was a key characteristic of this imperialist movement, unnecessarily harming the Africans who greeted British generals, such as Rhodes, as they arrived. Lobengula, the king of the Matabele, greeted the British new comers with open arms. Lobengula allowed the British to search for gold on his land and he even went as far as to punish any member of his tribe that threatened the white men. Ignoring this hospitality, the British only wanted more. Rhodes led troops into the Matabele land and slaughtered these natives with their maxim guns, which gave the Matabele no chance. Lobengula lay dead as Rhodes took his land and named it after himself; Rhodesia. The leaders of British imperialism were so self-centered that they often disobeyed orders from the Queen. How could anyone support this movement when the men at the forefront are manipulative thieves who used aggression and uncalled for fighting in order to satisfy their thirst for power? They have a lust for power that put the empire on the bad side of many countries. They are barbarians who coined the first concentration camps in the Boer war, imprisoning innocent women and children. Its one thing to colonize in order to get ahead on the economic scale, but imperializing brings arrogance, greed, and barbaric behavior in order to dominate.
It is the opinion of this editor that Britannia should continue its expansionist policies in the Indian subcontinent. It has been determined that, first and foremost, we come to this land not with the iron sword of conquest but with cross of mercy. We come not with the intent to conquer; we have come ready to teach the peoples of this land. Many of them live in destitution and squalor, overwhelmingly illiterate, thinking only of how to survive day to day. Our empire has come, and we have taught them not only our language, but have even exposed them to the best of our literature. In a world where our empire reigns so prolifically, who can deny it is of value to learn the English tongue? Indeed, the sun never sets upon the British Empire; hence, if we and our tongue do dominate the world, the peoples of this land must learn the language in which they are encased. This is an ancient ideal, held firm from the times of the Romans, who forced their subjects to learn Latin, so that they might be involved in the affairs of that magnum imperium. We have also come as a light of virtue into the valley of the shadow of death. These barbarians joyously murdered their infants, and had their women throw themselves on the pyre in mourning of their deceased husbands. Such a disregard for human life cannot be supported by any civilized people. One argues, but it is part of their culture to do so. It was once, in the times of Rome, part of the culture to cast malfigured infants into the cold to die, yet Christian virtue stomped out that practice, and none will argue that such a change was for the worse. Britannia is now at the apex of its industrial strength; we have soared ahead the rest of Europe in manufacturing and textiles. It makes only sense, while we are at this high, to establish ourselves in India, where the population is expansive and the land is rich in cloth and resources. Bring our industrial power there, where resources are in abundance and an impoverished people stand ready to take up machines. The profit that would be rendered unto England would be immense. One argues, would they not be subject to worse treatment than they currently receive in their lives of poverty? I argue back, they would be subjected to no worse than what the British worker receives. We would bring unto that land industry, which, although it may have tedious growing pains, would in the end only benefit the nation. Also, it is important to note, in India, all our opium is grown. If we are to retain the powerful opium trade we hold in China, India must be thoroughly secured; elsewise, our debt to them shall be bound far longer than it would be otherwise. Therefore, fellow countrymen, I beg you to see the necessity of Indian conquest, for our nation and theirs.
At the close of this century, Britain’s policy of Imperialism has caused many problems around the world, from Africa to China. Its horrible impacts are quite apparent in Britain’s relations with China regarding the Opium Trade. For the past few years, opium has started to become an increasingly popular trading item for the British East India Trading Company because of its abundance and addictive affects. The Chinese Emperor decided to put an end to the Opium trade when he realized that it had been the cause of his son’s death. The Chinese saw that it was becoming a social problem for those who were involved with the drug, and as a result, decided that those caught would face the death penalty. Lin Zexu, the Commissioner of Canton, has written “A Letter of Advice to Queen Victoria” which asks for her agreement to end this trade. Tensions have started to form between the two nations. Zexu says the Chinese do not mind our imperialistic policies at all, bringing forth the fact that China supplies Britain with trades such as ginger, cinnamon, silk, tea, satin, and chinaware, while in turn China can get along without the goods of Britain. Yes, there are British who believe that our nation must establish power over the world to maintain our status, but perhaps too much power may threaten to be our downfall. If China supplies us with so much, why not listen and stop this one trade which is hurting our ties with an important trading country? However, Britain is too greedy and only worried about making profit while Zexu is simply concerned with the well being of his country in terms of the harmful health and social problems it poses. The British are even aware of this, and yet, want to continue to ignore what has strained the relations between the two countries. Zexu states, ““How can you bear to go further, selling products injurious to others in order to fulfill your insatiable desire?”. Perhaps that is why this commissioner labels us as “barbarians”. Regardless, the letter demonstrates an empathetic attitude when Zexu states, “Naturally, you would not wish to give unto others what you yourself do not want.” It seems selfish of our nation to ignore this warning, for the Chinese are even willing to compromise the time period so that Britain may put an end to this trade. Why would a nation want to jeopardize its relationship with another nation that is fairly beneficial to them for the sake of one drug? Perhaps our foreign policy of Imperialism is responsible for making our has country more greedy for money and power, and this need for more will eventually be more of a hindrance than anything, a view taken by Vladimir Ilyich Lenin who wrote “Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism”. We should not confuse imperialism with colonialism for we need to remember that these are different nations with different cultures who are not being ruled by our government.
British Times Herald What is the definition of a world power in the eyes of 19th century Europe? A country that has the ability to expand itself unto all known reaches of the world, east and west, north and south. Claiming soil that has been inhabited long before The Empire even existed. Conquering grand civilizations and subjugating it's people to work, to slave, for The Empire as a minute cog in the grand scheme of machinery and industry. To become carbon copies of British subjects in all but pallor and treatment, to have their cultures wiped from them because they are savage and primitive. We, a tiny little island in the Atlantic, have half the world under our tea-stained thumb. Why shouldn't we take advantage of these people? They are lesser than us when looked at by the eyes of civilized British society and weighted against the standard British values. They have inferior cultures and useless traditions. Conflicting opinions on imperialism have arisen withing The Empire, both feverish support and powerful doubt. Questions like: Is this the correct way to become a world power? have arisen. Or better yet would England still hold it's position as a world power if we did not try to take control of these countries?” The answer to the former is yes. This is a time of mass invention, advancements in agriculture, health, and manufacturing and England is the epicenter of this movement. We are so far ahead of our own continent there is absolutely no need to exploit other countries, like India, except for greed. What is the difference between colonization and imperialism? The difference is where in colonization we put our own people on our own claimed land in imperialism we subdue the proud native population and destroy their cultures, a much worse fate. Even America who we colonized with our own British subjects fought to gain independence from British rule, this situation is much worse where an entire people are being forced to obey a foreign power where that power destroys their culture, tradition, and pride. For example in the Queen Victoria videos, Cecil Rhodes tricked Lobengula, King of Ndebele, into signing over his own land when Lobengula understood their treaty to be allowing Rhodes to dig ten holes for diamonds on his land. Not only had we used our literacy against this natural race of people but we stole the land of a whole established nation, like a carpet right from under their feet. China, a country that we did not have control over, was weakened severely by the illegal opium trade, and when a civilized Chinese diplomat, Lin Zexu sent us a letter blatantly telling us of our selfish and greedy actions we ignored it! Britain, the country we as Brits so lovingly call it the mother country has a death grip on all of the colonies or “children”. This is morally unhealthy for The Empire with our unhampered ethnocentrism, unhealthy for the colonies that we exploit, and unhealthy for countries like China who suffer at the hands of our pure greed. Through all of this, one must know and remember that it is out of sheer love for my country and its empire that I write as such. So will we, Britons, as a people continue to let this unspeakable greed prosper at the suffering of our reputation as the Mother country? Will babying and exploiting these countries help us at all in the long run? The answers to all of these questions is and should be: no.
If history shows us anything, it is that our sweet island nation is greatest. Britain lead the world into the modern age with its industrial revolution and subsequently took its title as the mightiest of all countries in industry, trade, and arms. It is subsequently our duty to mankind to allow others to enjoy the knowledge and prosperity of the British empire. Imperialism is not only essential to ensuring this prosperity grows but also essential to spreading it.
Imperialism is not a flattering term. As it implies Britain does almost take over its holdings and sometimes with force. However, one must remember that it is only for the good of our nation and man. A perfect example of the benefits of imperialism are the colonies in Africa. Africa is a land rich in resources that far surpass any other treasure in value. Britain is benefited by the acquisition of such resources. Meanwhile the natives of Africa are likewise benefited by Britain occupancy. These men who previously lived primitive lives in a crude society are introduced to knowledge and technologies that bring them into this modern age. Britain’s occupancy allows the natives reach there full potential and live in a civilized nation.
Imperialism is first of all a benefit to Britain. Occupation of southern Africa allowed both for a source of resources and a trade market. Meanwhile Gordon’s martyrdom in the Sudan and imperialism in Egypt gave access to the Nile and the Suez Canal. These crucial holdings promoted trade both in Africa and in further east lands. Trade both gives our industries more markets and helps ideas spread. Imperialism also benefited Britain through the Africa’s natural resources. Africa had an abundant source of precious diamonds and gold waiting to be liberated from its earth. For example, Rhodes started one of the greatest mining companies of all time and spread British influence through most of southern Africa. This treasure helps Britain to become one of the most wealthy nations.
Meanwhile some people may propose that natives killed and lands taken over prove Imperialism’s downside. However, all fighting that took place was merely defense against threats to our great country’s dominance. The Bohrs and some natives objected to Britain’s noble cause and stood in the way of it. Naturally they had to be dealt with. In the long run most of the natives have benefited from imperialism. Their primitive tribes are introduced to society and given the means of becoming civilized people. If it was not for imperialism, there’s no telling how long it would take the African nations to catch up to Europe.
Overall Imperialism is necessary to the world. Without it our beautiful country could not be what it is and the rest of civilization would suffer.
Imperialism is a shortsighted, ultimately futile effort. In forcing our cultural “advantages” upon a people with their own unique history and traditions, you thrust a “knife of sugar” into them, as was once said by Dadabhai Naoroji in describing British control of India; while some of your actions may come to benefit them, the net result will be a harsh control of another people. Indefinitely will these people be turned against us, causing the unnecessary bloodshed of all involved. An understanding of our interactions with China in the last century greatly aids this argument; our trade with the nation involved our importation of massive quantities of foodstuffs, notably tea, as well as silk and other materials necessary for the production of textiles. In return, Britain has sent to China vast quantities of opium, harvested from the fields of our Indian domain. Opium is known to be highly addictive, and such prestigious figures as the Chinese emperor's son have succumbed to its effects. Why then, did the Chinese allow its importation? The short answer is that they did not. As evidenced in Lin Zexu's letter to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, the Chinese pleaded with Britain to forbid the bringing of opium to China, asking “How can you bear to go further, selling products injurious to others in order to fulfill your insatiable desire?” The Chinese authorities confiscated the drug and declared opium importation punishable by death, though not before declaring a period of leniency, in which offenders would not be so harshly reprimanded. All of these acts were completely under the authority of the Chinese government. How did we respond? By using our superior military to force open the doors of trade. The so-called Opium Wars were military campaigns to impose our trade interests upon another nation, to their detriment. This conflict, one of the multiple “wars of peace,” (eloquently named by Rudyard Kipling), is a bleak example of the results of imperialism. No one willingly enters into an agreement which is ultimately disadvantageous to them. Imperialism forces weaker nations to do just that. Mr. Kipling perfectly underlines the implicit perils of imperialism in “The White Man's Burden.” In accepting the rule of “silent, sullen peoples,” and attempting to change their ways, you will be met with no thanks. Rather, you appear as a monster, come from a far-off land to do nothing but eradicate their autonomy and promote your own splendor. The guise of altruism, of spreading superior British ideas to the world, is thus thrown off. Imperialism is ultimately enacted for the economic profit of one, at whatever cost will be assumed by the other. While you may “fill full the mouth of Famine,” what is done for people will always be dwarfed by what you could have done for them. In taking dominion over another group of people, you are ultimately responsible for its well-being. Problems, even ones existing before takeover, are assumed by the imperial powers. If conditions do not improve, then the native people “Shall weigh your gods and you.” Unrest will spread, and war will be necessary to maintain the subjugation. Or, as Kipling describes these lands of unrest, “Go mark them with your living, and mark them with your dead.” It appears that a good Christian should aspire to maintain his personal faith, while letting others be; if he chooses to intrude too far into the affairs of others, he risks bringing his brothers to arms and causing their destruction. This heinous act could never be forgiven at the gates of the Lord. Rather than assume a controlling role in the betterment of another, give him the tools to do so himself, and speak to him as your equal. Gracious words will cause him to heed your advice, and your reward will be his gratitude and partnership. In this way, the hazards of imperialism may be replaced with peace and understanding.
Editor, British Times Herald: It has come to my attention that there has been growing public concern over our great country’s expansionist policies. There have been accusations that we are exploiting the native peoples of our expanding empire. I must dismiss these allegations as utterly absurd. Over the years it has been proven again and again that the British Empire is the greatest. The vast size of our empire is a reflection of our strength. They say the sun never sets upon the British Empire. As for the barbarous people of our territories, they need us. These uncivilized barbarians should rejoice that we have come to educate them in the ways of our superior culture. Our presence in the Indian subcontinent is a blessing for these natives. Their lesser culture dictates that if a woman’s husband dies, then she must throw herself upon his funeral pyre. You can see, of course, why such a despicable practice had to be stopped. Then there is the issue of education. They will be taught English, of course, as it is the language of our esteemed Empire. They will be educated in our literature. As Thomas Babington Macaulay remarked: “I have never found one among them who could deny that a single shelf of a good European library was worth the whole native literature of India and Arabia.” The natives will of course be very grateful that we enlightened them to the literary works of Western civilization. Who would dare to accuse us of exploitation? Is this something to be ashamed of, teaching an inferior race our culture? British Imperialism is beneficial to our own great country and to the people we assimilate into our empire. There are great economic benefits, there is no denying, but by expanding into Africa, China, and the Indian subcontinent we are showing how mighty we are. We prove to the world that Britain is the most powerful. We enlighten the natives with our literature, our language, our morals. I implore you, my fellow Englishman, to open your eyes and see just how advantageous expansionism is, both for our country and for the natives who reap the benefits of our being there. It is our duty to spread our higher culture to these places inhabited by uneducated, barbarous peoples. It would be detrimental to them were we to leave them as they were. My fellow Englishmen, can you not see how much they need us? Where would the natives be without our intervention?
It has recently come to my attention the great quandary concerning imperialism in our nation. There are those who would oppose the expansion of the British Empire, but for what purpose? They claim that it is harmful to the indigenous people which Her Majesty’s Empire has now so graciously taken under her protection. I assure you, dear readers, that Britain strives to look over the welfare of the world as a whole. As the Empire grows, so does the overall status of the earth, and those who have been accepted within its limits should be grateful. However, some unimaginably reject British influence, as is the current situation in China. It is this, the British presence in China, that should receive our attention and support. It is of the utmost importance that the influence of the British Empire in China remains, despite its resentment by some rather unpatriotic British citizens. Stable relations with China have been long in the coming. After many years, Britain has established favorable trade relations with China. This supports Britain’s extremely important economy, which in turn supports various lands all over the world. It is for the benefit of you, me, and the rest of the British Empire that this favorable trade relation continues. However, the Chinese look upon our trade relations with disdain. Lin Zexu, the Chinese commissioner, had this to say about British trade in China: “The wealth of China is used to profit the barbarians. That is to say, the great profit made by barbarians is all taken from the rightful share of China.” Examining this remark, there are several points that should make any upstanding British citizen scowl. The most blatant is the use of the term “barbarian” in reference to the British. For those who may not know, “barbarian” in the English tongue is a derivation of the Latin word “barba,” meaning “beard.” This arouses the imagery of a mindless, uncivilized savage, which is how the Chinese view the British. Although the letter is translated from Chinese, its connotation is no less invoking or less deliberate. The second thing obvious in the remark is that the commissioner blames Britain for the fact that British trade has been so successful in China. It is easy to see how misguided the commissioner is, as he does not understand the fact that trade with the British Empire increases the welfare of all of its subjects. It is because of this that the Empire must remain in China. The Chinese do not understand the benefits of British activity; that more economic stimulation for Britain will result in advantages for the Chinese as well, such as more missionaries to bring them closer to God. Our position is clearly established the Rudyard Kipling’s poem “The White Man’s Burden.” Kipling draws attention to the fact that Britain is sending its best and brightest out into the world for the improvement of the world as a whole. It is their duty to aid those who cannot yet grasp the benefits of the British Empire. The work is all the more difficult because it is unappreciated, both by those it helps and even by some in Britain. It is because of this that I implore you to see that imperialism benefits all those who comply. Because of the importance of educating, inspiring, and uniting the world, it is imperative that imperialism continue. Sincerely, Dalton Bassett
The Western World of Europe is a blood thirsty, power hungry mob or nations and has a never-ending , unsatiatable want for more fame, more control, more trades and most of all, more money. The 20th century Britain was no different, even if there were new ideals and new growth in thinking. Great Britain’s chief motivation in colonizing other lands, like India, is in order to make profits to benefit the mother country, not to help build and modernize those nations as they had put up the facade of doing. The caucasian European’s in settling India was a show of them “Striving for domination, not for freedom. They only saw a huge market of profit in the land of India, at that time undeveloped, yet with so much potential. By the end of their stay in India, they had built it up to the ideal landmass where they could exploit the labor and the land in order to farm such things such as rice and produce coveted goods such as cashmere.Unlike colonialism, they had no regards as to whether they should help to develop the Indian nationso that it may fend for themselves, only saw it as a source to use to their advantage. They developed a complete monopoly on the Indian continent so that Indian peoples only bought their overpriced goods. In this effect, British occupation of India was highly detrimental. The repression of the Indian markets and economy caused them to stay as a weak nation that relied heavily on the Western nations in order to survive. What the white men did do to help, they did it with a sour heart and with little regard to to the feelings of the individual people’s of India. They termed what they did the “white man’s burden” and looked scoffed at that job. They disregarded Indian traditions such as Sati, where hindi women throw themselves into the funeral pyre of their husbands, which in some instances can be brutal and violent but to many others it is an important part of their culture. The voices of the india minority are often unheard and it is on the indian people’s shoulders where much of the costs(debts of up to 100,000,000) are heaved. Even Citizens of Great Britain felt that Imperialism was detrimental on the home country; that it is a waste of their resources. Often, they have to dispatch their own men to fight battles in other countries and spend money that could be used for domestic causes. As a result of Imperialism, Indian economy and nation remained backwards and underwater for so long. While there might have been some benefit, such as development of better transportation systems, most of it was lost in what Indian growth might have been able to expound to without the repressive policies of Great Britain.
I think that the era of Imperialism was a necessary evil. As is implied by the phrase "necessary evil", Imperialism was needed to push the world forward but in many cased provided for a lot more harm than all good things. The most heightened time of Imperialism was during the late 1800s and early 1900s, called the Scramble for Africa. The part of the world on which the "Sun Never Sets" had set its sights on something big, something that would give it even more influence on the world, Africa. But Britain's intentions were anything but honorable. This is where the evils of Imperialism are unveiled. Even though there were a few positives to come out of England's full-fledged goal to win Africa, the devastation is hard to ignore-- this was a case of "greed and economic exploitation". Following David Livingston, General Charles Gordan (religion) and Cecil John Rhodes (empires) stormed Africa. Rhodes went down the exploited the diamond-rich areas. Without any care for the surrounding Africans, he worked them without any care day in and day out. Rhodes fought a religious battle to change the traditional ways of the Africans. In my opinion, Herbert Spencer's ideas on Social Darwinism are the reason for this madness. It gave the British the feeling of entitlement. They saw blacks as inferior, in need of help, and easy to over-power. They saw the necessary part to be from the "white man's burden". Gordan's religious battle in Sudan resulted in death on both sides, but mainly that of Africans. And once he was gone this was only encouraged by dear, old, Queen Victoria who granted a charter to Rhodes. Rhodes path of exploitation resulted in the creation of the company with a monopoly on diamonds. While fueling the British economy it only drained that of Africa. Seeing as diamonds were so abundant in Africa this continued on without mercy. This is seen at the first use of the machine gun (60 shots/sec). They wanted Matabele land and showed no mercy in gaining it. Matabele were slaughtered and Rhodes didn't even bat an eyelash. Rhodesia was born, which further exploited the riches of Africa. Though pushing Africa forward, the British truly only brutally hurt Africa. It stole away its traditions and forced British ways and standards upon them, killed without worry, and exploited the African land. Imperialism was necessary but at times it is hard to see past all the evil.
It has fallen to me at this time to produce an editorial regarding the subject of our great country Britain's occupation of the natives of India. One such editorial, it would be hoped, would provide the public with knowledge, the most noble tool, such that they might have the chance to see what such a task has been undertaken. Though it be with a grain of humor, I would report that finding information contrasting the benefits and debits of the occupation of India was no simple task. Yet, this was due not to a lack of information, but a seeming non-existence of those who would say that any ill has befallen the natives of the Indian land from our occupation. Imperial dominance is, at its base, practical. When one such a nation as great as ours is given the opportunity to expand our reach, and so gain a crucial edge over those such nations as would see our economic lead unhorsed, said nation has nigh a duty to its people to secure their future for the best of their interests. In the occupation of India, we stand only to reap profits. As such, the only consideration we need make is whether it is such a burden to the native peoples, that Imperialism would be too morally distasteful to successfully pursue. Here there is once again no question, as by now occupation has been naught but a BENEFIT to the native peoples of India. It has been said that there is far more to gain in trading with a civilized people than in governing savages. It could have been said that, at the time of initial occupation, the Indians were no more than that. While the undertaking is enormous, as the quality of Eastern literature trails so far behind that of Britain, we have made immense gains in the way of educating the Indian people in our tongue. In time, gains may be so enormous as to establish an Indian society as befitting interaction with our countrymen. Preceding our intercession, the Indian peoples were not so much a country, as a scattering of warring tribes and gatherings. Under our skilled and trained administrative agents, a respectable government adhering to English principles has been drawn up, so as to better the natives. It is here I would like to address opponents of Imperialism, as a chief argument I encountered was a complaint that the Indian peoples receive a disproportionately small representation in their own government. As they had no real government beforehand, it can be hardly fair now to disdain those who would hold office until education has sufficiently progressed to produce leaders whose abilities would suffice to ensure greater wellness for their people. Other worries surrounding occupation are that of cultural suppression. In this regard, I can report with great positivity that the British government has taken great care and pride in the preservation of local culture. So we as British countrymen may continue to rejoice. There can be no telling the benefits that may come from the diffusion of our empire throughout the world.
Imperialism is evil. Why? Imperialism is a policy in which control is extended by an empire over foreign countries for economic, territorial, and political purposes. This is wrong. It is not fair to take control of a land that has people who have their own land, own unique history, and own culture. What if someone were to enforce imperialism on us? How would we feel when our land is being taken away? How would we feel when we are told to change our religion? How would we feel if our culture is being manipulated? I believe that we would not be happy but mad. This is exactly how people feel under British control.
A good example of this would be India. Dadabhai Naoroji called the British control of India, a “knife of sugar.” There were many advantages to India because of our rule, but the disadvantages outweighed the advantages. He agreed that we were bringing a lot of positive changes to India but he said that we need to listen to them. We need to listen to what their concerns are. We need to give them a part in government, so they can have their own representatives representing their views and opinions. They are frustrated because their voices are not heard. Thomas Babington Macaulay said that the “admission of high natives to office must be effected by slow degrees.” Indians are frustrated. They believe that we don’t represent them well and we don’t. We are just after our own economic pursuits. At the same time, we plan on educating them the Western way. They might not like that. They have their own mother-language and do not know English. The government officials in India have their own way of educating their people. We should not interfere. We can give them advice but we should not impose anything on them. Some of the Indian rituals outraged the British, like the burning of a widow after her husband died, called sati. They banned it but most of the Indians did not like it. They opposed it. Although we may think it’s wrong but it is their culture. As Dadabhai Naoroji said, “When you will know our real wishes, I have not the least doubt that you would do justice.” Now the question is: Do we know their “real wishes”? Yes, we do but we won’t fulfill them because we know that they are not in the best interest of the British government.
The British rule in India is unjust. We are taking away the rights of people who are pleading us to leave. If we don’t leave soon enough, realize that the people in India are going to rise up. This can lead to a civil war. The British Empire will then have to send in the military to oppress the riots or revolts but that is not the solution. The best solution is to handover the government to Indian officials and leave when they are ready to lead themselves.
Hey! Yeah you! By reading this editorial today, I hope that I can sway you to support our great British nation and continually maintain imperialism. Without imperialism, our small island (when compared to other large, powerful nations such as France and Russia) would be soon cut off and at they mercy of these other brutes. Imperialism shapes the fashion you wear, the food you eat, and the news that you hear. Without it, we would no longer be Britain! In Africa especially, I wholly support the advancement of imperialism. Already, these "savages" that live in these countries are beginning to be exposed to education, politics, and better policies. Without our influence, these countries would slip back into civil war and squander all of the precious resources and culture that would be wasted. Before imperialism, Britain was merely a great country. Even with the rise of industrialism, our country was in danger of being overtaken by other European workhorses. Even today, the world is a competitive and dangerous place, with many countries eager to take our place as the empire on which the "Sun Never Sets." Imperialism will help to spread all of the knowledge and wonders that our island nation is famous for. We do not normally force our nations that we occupy to embrace our culture, but many of our "conquered" nations readily would die for the Crown. We help these nations advance into the 19th century and become civilized. In South Africa, our presence there is beneficial for everyone. We are able to utilize the resources and trade routes that are in this nation, which will further advance our British nation. The natives are already adapting well to our presence, and normally welcome us into their homes with open arms. The other nations of Africa benefit also, as the death of Gordon in the Sudan will only double our efforts in that nation. The advancement of the Sudan is also crucial, and is a great example of the double benefit that is imperialism. Trade between Britain and other eastern nations is greatly improved, which can help to spread ideas and culture. The people of the Sudan are already benefiting due to this exposure to our culture. For every negative aspect of imperialism brought up by critics, one of its many benefits greatly outweighs this negative. Some say that imperialism spurs violence and that the taking of native's lands is not right. Though they can point to the situation with the Bohrs and their refusal to cooperate with our nation was due to their stubbornness. When all talks of peace were exhausted, we were forced to show these primitive people that they were incorrect. Another shining example of the benefits of imperialism is Rhodes, which has contributed many of its riches to the finances of our country. All of these facts are undermined by one important note; imperialism has allowed our country to become the most powerful nation ever witnessed in Europe. Who wants to end that?
Imperialism is an ever present society during this day and age, and the public opinion continues to shift on whether imperialism is a good thing to continue. Imperialism has graced England with ¼ of the territory in the world and made her the richest power on the globe, it is imperialism that has allowed us to modernize and culture many of the barbarians that populate the god forsaken reaches of the world, and it is imperialism that allows England to continue to spread the greatness of western society. By expanding so greatly, England has a direct supply of diamonds, gold, spices, rubber, metals, and cloths, which make England the richest nation on the globe. None of this would even be feasible without the aggressive imperial strategy taken by the crown. The powerful nations of Europe would not respect England nearly to the same degree, if not for the expansion into Africa and Asia. Further more we have reformed the cultures of all the barbarians in the territories we have occupied. A perfect example is the ritual suicide practices that we have abolished in India. By imperialistic methods we have made the world a more civil place. In Africa we have pushed back the tribes in several areas and brought civility to a very hostile continent, and saved the people of every society we have conquered. The world has been improved technologically and culturally in the tradition of the west, and this would not have happened without England taking the front-line expanding. Imperialism has allowed England to improve the world in widespread and significant ways, and without it England would not be what it is today. So before people try to put an end to imperialism, think about the good that England has done for the world and the barbarians that England has helped into civilization. Imperialism is a practice that the people of England should support, and defend so that England may continue to do good in the world and continue to be the worlds greatest superpower.
We as the great nation of Britain have a duty, and owe it to mankind to spread our wealth of knowledge to the world. The simplest way that this is accomplished is through Imperialism. Imperialism helps our beautiful nation grow, and helps to speed up the growth of the lesser nations around us. We achieve this growth through trade of the national resources within each of the countries.
Imperialism has many benefits for both parties involved. For Britain, not only do we gain infinite amounts of natural and other resources we also get the pleasure of educating other, lesser countries to help them become more like the ultimate nation, Britain. Our occupation in African is among one of the largest benefits for our nation. Africa is a vast land, full of resources such as precious stones and metals. This greatly benefits our nation because it gives to us a large commodity, prized among the people of the world. So because of this it gives us opportunity to gain other resources necessary to our survival as a nation as a whole. Furthermore with our occupation of Africa we gain access to major waterways such as the Suez Canal, and the Great Nile River, which this gives our nation even more access to trade with the control of these waterways.
Many industries have been opening up because of our occupations of many countries, for example Rhodes opened up a very impressive mining company, uprooting precious stones and metals. All of this has really sparked the economy opening up opportunities for people to start industries like this.
Yes, people have said that it is disgusting what the Great British Empire has done to this indigenous and you may argue this, but in the end the pros will greatly out way the cons. It may hurt some of these civilizations at first, because a majority of the time there is a great deal of bloodshed, because the native people do not realize the honor and dignity that comes with being a part of this wonderful empire, and instead of at first embracing it they shut it down. But once they realize all the benefits they will gain things easy up and they go smoothly.
Imperialism is overall just greatly beneficial, whether it be the conquering nation or the nation being conquered they both have so much to gain from it all. These newly conquered nations also gain the pride and respect that comes along with being apart of the Great British Empire.
In today’s ever-changing world, decisions made by the world’s powers affect the rest of the global community. And as Britain is, and God willing, shall remain, the lead world power, we bear, most undeniably, the fate and weight of world matters. It is our divinely granted right – nay, our divinely mandated duty – to consider what we must do to support both our blessed country and her dependants. It is manifest that we, a country so rich in history, culture, and leadership have learned and are obliged to share the path to success and happiness. It is evident that there are those among us that would have us believe it would be right to abandon the fledgling nations that we have established ourselves in. But I ask you, why? Must we not, a country ourselves, support ourselves that our citizens may continue to thrive? Must we not, a nation of God-fearing Christians, pass on the wisdom of our Lord to those who have not heard its glory? Must we not, a global-minded and fair community, allow those less fortunate than us a place upon the new world stage? To wit: the subcontinent of India, in which we have established our benevolent presence, has recently been thrust into this spotlight of controversy. We are accused of suppressing native culture. If this is in reference to our abolition of suttee and infanticide, murderous practices against women and children, then we stand guilty, and I, as well should any human being regardless of nationality, would have it no other way! We have been accused of corrupting the native thought. If this refers to our system of education to the ignorant, our spreading of the Good Word, our resurrection of native literature and simultaneous introduction of ours, then I say, resoundingly, yes! We are entirely culpable for such “misdeeds.” Examine, if you would, what we have done for this nation. In addition to the above benefits, we have given opportunities of government; enlightenment of culture; peace, order and prosperity; many political freedoms, such as that of speech; successful trade items to grow, harvest, and import; generous loans and materials to unite the country under a system of railways and irrigation; and many more such boons. What more could a nation want? We could, like many other imperial powers, crush and subdue them for naught but our own gain. Instead, we offer them protection from this very fate, and supply them with opportunities to rise above their given lot. It is not only as a Briton, but as a Christian and a human that I support, whole-heartedly, the imperialist policies of our nation.
British imperialism a staple of economy as well as a beneficial program made to modernize the savages of the modern world. The barbarians of the world are volatile breeds not only cumbersome to British policies but to themselves. How could any civilized civilization stand by when such atrocities as suttee revenge a society? Would you have our empire stand by and observe such provincial practices one just as grotesque as the next? The answer to these questions by a moral civilized Englishman is no. We must stand up and as our forefathers before us decide our role in this modern era will we be those who observe others suffering and belittle them or those that save them. India therefore must not regain its independence or its people will relapse into their old barbaric ways rejecting modern technology and new social practices. The benefits of this rule are numerous as described by Dadabhai Naoroji in his “The benefits of British Rule, 1876” document. Naoroij first examines the benefits to Indian humanity such as abolition of infanticide and suttee. No doubt these practices that had gone on for years would have continued if we had not stepped in. Furthermore we have given them the gift of western literature which as in Naoroij Case of civilization paragraph was excepted by Indians as many times more beneficial to learning then that of the Indian literature. Naoroij also gives what can be considered the popular opinion for government reform “peace and order.” Undoubtedly our reformed government system has proved far more effective then that of the previous Indian government which was in constant turmoil with smaller factions vying for power. All these improvements were needed to stabilize and improve a previously barbaric land. By leaving these peoples soon enough they will be at each others throats again bloodying the landscape we helped to clean. Who can suffer this blood on his hands? Who could suggest abandoning this province to the ruthless and crude? We must continue domesticating these beasts until the point they walk, speak, eat, and govern as we do. Another use of imperialism is to keep our economic and militaristic opponents at bay. Needless to say the other European powers maneuver to claim positions around the world to gain the advantage. We can not afford to stand back well other nations move to claim territories and leave us to a solitary position incapable of reaching out to the rest of the world. These colonies give us the raw resources necessary to continue domination of the other European powers in industrial output. India’s location and spices make it a colony necessary to the power of the British empire. Without our imperialism we would lose this to one of the many other nations of hounds that will circle it and devour it. This gives us a moral and economic purpose to keep and secure India. The balance of power as of now is at a stalemate. Dare we allow another nation to increase its power to the state of the Napoleonic empire? The answer to this is the continued domination of provinces in an imperialistic manner in order to secure the peace of our nation and others. In conclusion it is are god given mission to save these barbaric peoples and create peace and economic welfare for our great empire. In the end our continued imperialistic values will make the world a better place.
The British policy of Imperialism laid down a framework of success within every country it colonized. We as a great nation, work hard and thus prove to be one of the greatest powers this world has ever seen. The expansion of our great empire has brought upon numerous economic benefits. It has opened up doors to new markets and introduced unfamiliar lands. Places that bring in many necessities and materials that greatly increase our production. We have become associated with Africa, a land scene as inferior to our standards. A step in the territory and a forceful assimilation gave rise to a greater nation. Africa is a land of many riches, filled with resources. Our efforts to stamp out the slave trade within this country were successful. Our navy stopped Zanzibar from trading with anyone. The embargo was effective and rewarding for the British, we had thus won a moral victory in Africa. The tip of Africa appeared to profitable as well. The Suez Canal and South Africa heightened our interest and appear to be two financially beneficial opportunities. Our policies here were dictated by the desire to control India. This gain made India more accessible. This canal would eliminate tedious miles of travel that were taken to reach India. A trip that lasted 3 months would only take a mere 3 weeks. Soon the British traders in India gained a significant amount of influence. Our time spent in Africa helps our country thrive. It paves roads to other opportunities throughout the world. We expect to see a gradual increase in the size of territories under our control. This movement is meant for our best interest as well as the bettering of the world itself. An assertion of superiority upon the inferior. We also see an increasing number of factories, railroads, schools, hospitals as well as roads being built. Improving our infrastructure as well as the infrastructure of the new colonies. Mining companies have worked to uproot precious metals, jewels and stones. Success in such areas give rise to the start of many industries. An encouraging sign to many civilians. Trade flourished with the new connections, which is directing beneficial to our nations economy. It brings more variety and diversity into our production. Remember the importance of nationalism, and the pride it brings to our nation. As a citizen we want the absolute best and should encourage the increase of power. A powerful empire gives rise to so many things, including protection. All of this serves as a solid purpose to secure the lands we've acquired. An opposition held to imperialism can be outweighed with the pros of this policy. It is not viewed as a destruction to ones culture or an unfair takeover to ones land. It is a move made to benefit us as well as the others it affects. Conquering brings in many benefits and helps expand our great empire. It brings strength to our nation.
The acts of the British Empire during the 19th century have severely crippled foreign nations through acts of violence, through the use of slavery and with some most unsavory policies. Brittan the empire in which is one of the most influential nations in this world today chooses to be a voice of brutality and outright unsavory business practices. In China the nation has become infested with British opium so much so that the Emperor has asked the Queen herself to put a stop to this abuse and has even threatened (emptily) that he will go to war with the British and remove us from their lands. They have gone so far as to call us barbarians for our trade practices. And in a letter from the Chinese it was said that our sales of opium to the Chinese has, “spread the poison to all provinces” and that these people (being us), “only care to profit themselves, and disregard their harm to others.” The letter goes on to say this is intolerable. China is not the only nation with harsh laws holding them back, in places like South Africa we actively work to take away rights and alienate the native people. People such as Rhodes who fight for segregation a pushing our country back into the dark ages and effecting the countries that they inhabit in a bad way; they have enslaved the natives and forced them into hard labor as for other settlers they have forced them into death camps and allies on the continent have been stabbed in the back in the name of greed. I for one agree this is an inhumane practice which is profiting by hurting the people of another land. With our Great Empire should work for the better of the people under our control not for the benefit of just us. With a larger more stable economy in all of our countries we could create a better market in which the wealth is in the hands of more than just a select few, this would create a more stable standard of life for all of us and make the British Empire even greater.
The controversy over Britain’s imperialistic policies is a rising dispute among the people. I am writing this editorial for you, the public, to see and understand that the imperialistic policies have significantly helped to strengthen our nation. Our expansion into India, as well as other areas, has allowed Her Majesty the Queen to be in charge of just about ¼ of the land and create new economic benefits for our country. Not only has Britain obtained new economic benefits, but we also have had the opportunity to help the people of the land. We have brought the people out of their barbaric ways and educated them in the Western Way.
We, as a large influential nation, have helped the people of India and greatly improved their living conditions and standards. As Rudyard Kipling manifested in The White Man’s Burden. It is our duty as a civilized nation to help civilized and improve the lives of the other nations, such as India. We have taken action to educate the people on India, both male and female, in the Western Way of things thus making them more civilized. We have done away with the inhuman practice of suttee and infanticide. An Indian man, Dadabhai Naoroji, wrote of the benefits of British rule in his country. He stated that since we have occupied the Indian subcontinent there has been “peace and order” we have done away with the corruption and we have granted freedom of speech and press. We have build roads for better transportation, and we have taken steps to better irrigation. We went to other nations with good intentions of helping the people and of bettering their land. Naoroji wrote, “To sum up the whole, the British rule has been: morally, a great blessing; politically, peace and order.” As you can see this man, an Indian himself, agrees that British rule has been beneficial to his country and his people.
Not only are our imperialistic policies favorable to the other nations, but to our nation as a whole as well. Our nation is one of the most influential of the age. We have developed a strong navy, enabling us to rule the seas, and we lead Europe in a scientific revolution that benefited lives and businesses across Europe. It is important for our nation to maintain a strong foothold as a dominating world power for the protection of our people. We have been able to, also, expand economically especially in India. All of these reasons are precisely why Britain should continue its imperialistic policies. It is our job as a dominating world power to educate and civilize others to improve their country. We have saved the barbarians by educating them in English, ending corruption, and building roads and railways. We have helped these people and helped protect our nation’s people by maintaining a strong grip on the competitive world in which we live. As you can see the our nation should maintain its imperialistic policies.
London, England- Readers of the British Times Herald, it has come to our attention that some of the general population has become opposed to the imperialistic policies of the great British Empire. Because of this the British Times Herald has decided to remind these unpatriotic cads of all the good that imperialism has brought not only to their motherland, but also to the peoples under our rule and protection. We, as a White nation with superior technology, have the obligation to help better the lives of foreign populations less fortunate than us, such as India. In addition we have brought order and civilized the barbarous ways of many pagan Indians. Finally, with a British presence in these lands we can spread the faith of Jesus Christ, thus saving their souls. One of the most easily recognizable benefits of British rule is the effects of us holding up the White Man’s Burden. Most of these nations that are colonized have little to no education or knowledge of the ways of modern science or medicine. The lack of medicinal development leads to higher death rates for the people. The presence of the English has increased to life expectancy of these peoples as we teach them proper medicinal practices. In addition we have brought the convenience and efficiency of our technology to these lesser nations. Our rail system has now united areas of India. Hundreds of thousands of Indians use these rails for transport without which they would be walking several miles to their destination. In addition to this we have brought order and civility to India. One nightmarish practice of the Indian people was that when a man died his wife (or wives as some of these polygamists had) were burned alive upon his funeral pyre. This senseless killing of these innocent women is just one of the practices that the British Empire has halted. Infanticide was practiced in India as well. Female babies were killed because men have a higher status. In fact as of 1834 there were only 603 females in all of Bombay. The British have saved many lives by halting these ungodly practices. Another reason imperialism has benefited the Indians is in bringing the Christian religion to this region. Many Indians practice a pagan religion that idolized monstrous crosses of humans and animals. The British influence in this region will undoubtedly start to convert the Indians to the true faith of Jesus Christ thereby saving their souls and hopefully help them to find heaven. However let us not forget how imperialism has benefited loyal English subjects. Spices, fabrics, raw materials, artifacts, and textiles are pouring into the coffers of the British Empire. The mysteries of the far reaches of the world are explored and together we, the British, have built the greatest empire in the history of the world upon which the sun never sets!
The British expansion into the Indian continent only yields that which is beneficial to both enterprises. For the Indians we do them a great favor for educating them and inducing them into our culture. As it is a parent’s responsibility to make the right choices for their children and teach them what is proper, the same applies for the white man to all other races below him. As history has often repeated itself, the white man has always come on top. And from that result it is our burden and moral duty to advance these tribal societies as God has chosen for us. And in the instance of India we have educated those people generously in our own tongue. This has served to expand their literacy and to make governing more convenient. And through civilizing them with our customs we have helped save innocent Indian lives from their own savage-like practice of sati. Sati is the practice of a woman burning herself alive at the funeral of her husband. From banning sati in some of our British territories we are continually sophisticating these savages into higher beings. Though they will never reach the class of even the lowest Englishman we still devote our time and patience for their betterment. And the generosity of our country does not end there. For their society we have increased their productivity and profits for their exports. Through our governance we have taught them the importance of freedom of speech and equal justice between men. Through our presence we have been able to influence these once tribal people into a unified and civilized nation under our umbrella. And one may ask, what does Great Britain benefit from being so magnanimous. We extend our resources, create new markets, gain powerful trading ports, and prove to the world that Her Majesty’s Empire is the greatest and that the white man will always prevail.
Imperialism is a God given right of the British Empire. As the most successful of the European nations, we must take it upon ourselves to help others who cannot help themselves as we have been doing in India. By temporarily controlling Indian’s government, we have guided them in the correct path to success. Our current occupation of India has brought countless social freedoms and economic prosperity to the colony. Not only has India gained benefits, but Her Royal Highness’s Empire has as well. We can use the colony to improve and expand the British economy. Our nation is the dominant country of the world; imperialism has shown to our competitors that Britain is a force to be reckoned with and that British influence continues throughout the world. It is also our patriotic and soul duty to help others in need; the Empire can achieve this through imperialism. Our nation can bring numerous benefits to India such as connecting India in the global economic network that has already been established by Britain. With continuing British help, India is now experiencing an economic boom. The Empire has colonies and trade routes around the world; these routes will be used to further develop a trade center in India and much of Asia. Alongside the British East India Trading Company, the Empire has created a vast network of trading opportunities in Asia with imperialism. The native people in India still live with a mentality of when superstitions ruled logic and education is not a priority. Britain has brought to the nation of India an equal opportunity of education to the natives. As Dadabhai Naoroji wrote in The Benefits of British Rule, there was a rebirth of Indian literature with the aid of the West and education was provided to both women and men. The British Rule allowed for “social evils” such as suttee and infanticide to stop. Freedom of speech has also been brought to the Indian people that had not been experienced before. Those who argue against Imperialism do not completely understand the benefits of it. Imperialism does have its costs, but the greater the sacrifices, the greater the rewards. British takeover of India has made the country better than it ever would have been. If Britain had not taken over India, then Germany or France or another nation would have taken the chance. It was inevitable for a land such as India to not be colonized within the century. Britain practices humane imperialism to all her colonies unless special occasions call for otherwise. Our glorious nation must continue with imperialism because it is what makes us dominant. The limitless resources are what supply our economy, people and army. Britain must protect the Empire in order to preserve the prestige of Her Royal Highness Queen Victoria. For God, country and Queen, Britain must continue implementing imperialism upon those who require help from a prosperous nation. God bless the Queen and Britain!
Over the past few centuries our Great Britain has been at the forefront of everything. Most important of these has been Great Britain’s dominance over this world as the great “mother country.” We have created an empire on which the sun will never set. We have stretched our gracious wings upon the lesser countries of this world. We have spread our prosperity to those countries that need them most; we have helped India become a prosperous country with rampant fields of a sorts of vegetation, including the prized poppy flower. Her Majesty’s Empire has spread its western cultures and education to civilize the barbarians of the east. Most noticeable is the spread of English literacy throughout Her Majesty’s Empire. Our English language has been so welcomed in India, that it has been made the official language of the ruling class there. We have to moral obligation to spread our knowledge to those less civilized in order to bring prosperity to the slums in the farthest corners of the globe. Our efforts at educating these masses have been accredited in Thomas Babington Macaulay’ articles on British interactions with Indians. Macaulay was opposed to these actions because he believed that it was not our task to educate these people, and he believed that other greater profits lied elsewhere. The public and I disagree strongly. We have been granted the gift of being born in the island of our Great Britain, and received the ability to be the most formalized of all people. We must provide these resources for the lesser races. I say we are making enormous fortunes in India. We have properly seduced the once great China with the enticing opiates produced on the fields of India. The British have created a better society for India, one that might make something out of these inferior races. We have abolished many of their disgusting and barbaric practices. One of these of course is the abolishment of ritual suicide. We, the British, have started to civilize these people in order to make them subjects of our great empire. Her Majesty’s Empire has also taken great effort at creating much infrastructure in India. Our efforts have even been recognized by the low indigenous people themselves; the British Empire played a crucial role in creating roads and irrigation systems for this inferior civilization. In conclusion, who can deny the moral obligations that has been posed for us? It is our duty to raise these people from the slums their mediocrity. We must also exploit the riches and lands that lie in India. We must feed those that subordinate, if we are to receive the proper profit from our subjects. We must analyze that to feed the civilizations of India is to claim our rightful place as the subjugator of the world. Her Majesties Empire will be the benefactor of multitudes of countries and in return they will provide land and riches for our own civilization to prosper. We must continue on our original agenda of spreading to every land, for the good of our nation.
As many Britons know, we are the strongest nation in the history of the world. We dominate the seas, we conquered the barbarians in the east, and we gained many riches in the process. One fifth on the world’s population can proudly call themselves subjects of the Queen and her great nation. The sun never sets on the immense British Empire, stretching from Australia to Canada, and anything done to jeopardize this great land should result in a punishment alike to that of treason. We have brought civilization and God to these people, who previously practiced barbarous rituals such as forcing a widow to burn herself on the pyre of her husband. Not only have we improved the lives of the barbarians, we have ourselves improved, gaining vast riches and knowledge. In order to maintain Britain’s position as the most powerful and moral nation, we need to continue on with the imperialism of the eastern world. One of the poor savage lands that Britain has helped progress is Indian. As Indian native Dababhai Naoroji points out, British rule has greatly improved the lives of Indians. Naoroji highlights a few major areas where Britain has greatly improved Indian society, areas that include: humanity, civilization, politically, and materially. While in the land of India, Britons have eliminated numerous pests destroying the native crops, and eliminated the precedent of ritual murder and gave charity in time of need. We have also given them education, for both sexes. We have given them the freedom of speech and press, rights to property and life, things that seem so obvious to us now, but so important to a civilized society. We have also provided monetary means for which to build railways and irrigation, improving the output of Indian agriculture which improves the economy of Britain. We benefit from the trade between India and all other nations. India provides vital and valuable goods that greatly increase the improve that economy of Britain. This testimony proves the effectiveness of Britain’s imperialism, and the great impact if has had on the education and development of once barbaric states. A poem by the well-known poet Rudyard Kipling, The White Man’s Burden, outlines the moral responsibilities of the British Empire. Although written about the American conquest of the Philippines, I believe Kipling wrote it to apply to the British Empire as well. The White Man’s Burden explains that it is our moral responsibility as the superior race, to control and improve the lives of the inferior races. “Half-devil and half-child,” these people are both evil and ignorant. It is our duty to go to those lands and save the savages that reside there. We may suffer in the process, and the people may not want us there, but we know, and the Lord knows, that what we are doing will save the souls of the savages. Kipling also points out he benefits that the peoples of the land will receive, from new roads and ports, to improved freedom. If it were not for the white man, the barbarians would suffer forever in hell and on earth. Imperialism by the British Empire is not only good for Britain, but it also improves the lives of the natives. We should continue on with our policy of expanding our empire. When both sides are improving from imperialism, why should it stop?
Imperialism is defined as the policy of extending the rule or authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries. The process of imperialism involves the subjugation of other colonies through assimilation. The mere definition of imperialism should be an indication of whether imperialism should be imposed or not. Imperialism is not only morally unsound but also can severely harm a nation’s population, their government, economy, and delicate culture. One of the most prevalent imperialistic nations throughout history has been Britain. At the turn of the 19th century, Britain maintained a great wealth of nations through their implication of imperialism policies in places such as Africa, China, and India. British imperialism was oppressive and completely unfair in these places and was only done out of immense greed and hunger for power. The more territory and control the British could maintain, the more influence and power they would have in world matters. Thus, Britain’s motives were utterly selfish and in no way had the interest of the nations they were oppressing in mind. One of the most detrimental instances of British imperialism by the end of the 19th century was in the nation of India. Britain’s imperialistic policies came to control India as if they were its supreme authority. India’s government, economy, and even social aspects were all controlled by Britain. For instance, there was little to no representation of India’s people in their own government. I find this to be absolutely ridiculous considering India is a massive nation and should be able to have at least some representation in their own government. The only way an Indian person would be allowed any form of representation would be if they were deemed to “think like a European”. This portrays the extreme arrogance in Britain’s attitude to the Indians and even if they did fit the British people’s “standards” they still would have very little importance in their nation’s politics. Another way Britain’s imperialism was terribly unfair and unethical in India was by restricting their education. Britain figured hat if they were to educate India, then they would become more intelligent and realize the horrors of imperialism. This in turn would cause an awakening sense of nationalism in India followed by a series of rebellions and upheavals against their British oppressors. So, in order to protect their position as imperialistic rulers, Britain made sure that India would not be able to flourish in the area of education and learning. Finally, the more imperialism Britain imposed on India, the more their culture seemed to melt away. For instance, because Britain, being their arrogant selves, thought that the English language was superior to all other languages, they decided to wipe out over 60 languages that had previously been spoken in India and replace them with their own language. Also, the British thought it would be a good idea to impose their religion on India as well by sending Christian missionaries to live amongst the Indian people. Soon, British culture was being imposed in almost every cultural aspect imaginable throughout India; from architecture all the way to apparel. India was struggling to maintain their identity. Britain even condemned and frowned upon several cultural traditions in the Indian society, such as the ritual suicide of wives when their husbands died. In my opinion, it is not Britain’s job to judge or condemn the practices of other cultures. The only reason Britain was interested in imperializing India was for their own selfish needs, such as gaining natural resources and having control of the British East India Company; allowing their trade industry to flourish. As you can see, British imperialism is done out of greedy, selfish motives that provide for the benefit of Britain, not India and only cause unjust oppression throughout the Indian nation.
The British Colonization was a successful attempt by the British to exterminate the cultures of the colonized people. This sad chain of events will haunt the country of Britain for years to come. In the process of achieving the largest empire in the world Great Britain has successfully destroyed the thousands of years of culture developed by these people. Why would they do something like this? Money and land. Britain has put aside its morals for riches. This is a horrible action and something the country will live with forever.
First let’s turn our attention to China. Many of you will surely wonder why we should focus on China. China is a microcosm for all of the pain we have caused the people of the world. We have introduced into China a powerful drug that is capable of addicting an entire country ultimately leading to its demise. This drug is opium. Britain is intentionally addicting an entire country for profit when they know that addiction will ultimately cause China to fail. Here we see Britain ignoring its morals and encouraging itself to cause pain to another country.
The next example of the terror caused by the British Empire is in India. Britain has taken advantage of India’s natural resources. In return for giving up their natural resources they have received little. True Britain has given Indians access to an education system but in the process has demanded that everyone learn English and that the schooling must be completed in English. The most important aspect of a culture because it is the only aspect that is used every waking moment is language. If Britain successfully converted the Indians to speaking only English then the very backbone of their culture would have been destroyed, forever. To conclude in return for some schools the Indians received a complete loss of their culture and the pillaging of their natural resources. That is not even close to being interpreted as fair.
The basis for Britain attempting to do these wholesale changes in India is the supposed duty to help the poor people of India who are too stupid and undeveloped to help themselves. It never occurred to the British that these societies have been around for as long if not longer than the British societies and are modern in their own right. The British believe that they have this great duty to help the lower class of citizens but whoever said that they were the upper class of society. As clearly is evident from China Britain does not look out for the good of all people and is in it for profit. The actions of the British are horrible and will continue to haunt the empire where “the sun never sets” forever.
Is it just for any one culture to claim supremacy and absolute control over another? This is the question that the devil of imperialism raises for us today. Who are we to invade upon the crafted cultures of others and say theirs are subservient? Culture is precious to every realm of this world, it is the diversity that makes the world interesting, and provides us with the opportunity to learn from others and improve upon ourselves. With this policy of imperialism we are selfishly destroying many cultures, notably China’s. We have greedily flooded China’s markets with the disastrous Opium which has killed many of the Chinese people and wreaked havoc among their society. Why have we done this? For profits. But do the profits outweigh the moral burden? Why if we know of the damage of the Opium do we continue to force it upon these people? We have outlawed Opium in Britain however we have overstepped our boundaries in deciding that it must be legal in China for our own benefits. We are exploiting these defenseless people who have fallen victim to this terribly addictive drug. Those who argue imperialism is a benefit to Britain in this ever- competitive world are disgusting and inhumane. Was imperialism a benefit to Britain when our men went to war over this Opium? What if we had not won and many of our men had died for such a dishonorable cause. In Chinese commissioner Lin Zexu’s Letter of Advice to Queen Victoria he wrote “Such persons who only care to profit themselves, and disregard their harm to others, are not tolerated by the laws of heaven and are unanimously hated by human beings.” Zexu is completely right in this statement, and any British man would say the same in the defense of his fellow citizens. We as proud citizens of Great Britain cannot have the responsibility upon us of another culture, and more importantly we cannot be held responsible for its destruction. Culture is not a commodity that can be sold on the market; which is something that is difficult for British parliament to comprehend under its decadent, invasive policy of imperialism. It is not to our discretion to decide how a culture should conduct itself, and it is definitely not to our discretion to murder what diversity God has placed on this earth. Who must be the one with the blood stained hands liable for the death of a culture- I would surely hope not Great Britain. As the 19th century draws to a close and we enter a new age, let us make the just decision in ridding ourselves of this tremendous burden called imperialism.
To the readers of the British Times Herald, it has come to my attention that the foreign policies being pursued by our Queen have come into question. It seems that the Crown’s pursuit of expansion into foreign lands is being questioned by certain members of society who say it is a mere policy of greed due to a thirst for power and nothing more. These men and women do not see the benefits that result from these policies. It is truly in the best interests of the British people and Empire to continue to expand. The economic benefits alone are enormous and, while detractors of the Crown’s policies may call it greed, I call it progress. No one can deny that what increase the wealth of this Empire is beneficial to all involved. In Africa alone, we have brought civilization to otherwise barbaric lands as well as access to the vast natural riches of the continent. This land is filled with precious stones, such as the diamond, and reserves of gold. Natural resources such as timber and land for farming are also now at our disposal. However, the most important part of our expansion into Africa comes from the access to the Suez Canal. This channel, as simple as our beloved River Thames, runs thought Egypt into the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean, saving British merchants, travelers and warships weeks of time in getting to the east in their travels to India and Britain. Without this necessary expansion, eastern markets and good would be incredibly difficult to access, causing prices to sky rocket. While people may disparage our pursuit of Imperialism, they do not complain when they reap its rewards. One of the largest outcry’s against foreign influence is a result of the belief that we as a British people treat our non-European subjects cruelly and like the American’s once treated their slaves. I say that this is an outright lie; our subjects are treated as we would treat any islander. However, if a native or group thereof, was to rebel, that rebellion will be treated with the harshness it deserves. As a government, we try to embrace the foreign influences that the natives encourage at the same time that we exert the proper control over the people. As one Thomas Babington Macaulay said in his article about how to embrace India and truly make it a part of our empire, we try to make the lands as free as they can be. Mr. Macaulay speaks of a desire to educate Indians in an attempt to create a class that the Crown can depend on and that the normal people will respect. We do not have our armies enforcing laws in the nations we are involved with; we allow them to try to rule themselves. Creating an Empire that the sun nerve sets on is critical to economic success, we need to open our eyes to the way we treat the natives and carry on.
Through imperialism, I hope you readers realize what a great service we are doing for our country and others. Without our great nation, other countries might have wives be burning themselves to show the devotion to their husband. If we did not step in many would still practice this as years go by. Imperialism may be referred to as “bad” but it most certainly is not for that we as a country have also flourished along with other nations. We must, through imperialism expand to have our country flourish and survive. Imperialism as time progressed became an essential asset to our survival because in the earlier years of the British Empire, we were weak. As France became to gain more and more power and obtain more land than us, they become a threat. However in order to compete we made sure our presence was known, but not always as a threat, but like a helping hand where we give them a push into the 19th century and they help us out by devoting themselves to the Queen. Even wives during the Sati ritual were saved due to our presence because it was banned. Imperialism even helps India become well governed through the help of Great Britain. And all we ask in return is for India to trade with us, and many people argue that Imperialism is wrong to do and should be stopped. There are so many benefits to Imperialism that they outweigh the negative. It is our duty as Englishmen to help those lesser cultures through reforming some of their ideas into ours for the betterment of their society. Many of the natives do not understand that but will in due time. Imperialism is the only thing beneficial that helps other countries and cultures flourish and many people still disagree with this idea even though it helps societies evolve into becoming a better person or culture.
The Imperialization of a country is defined as not only taking over the politics of that country, but the economy and the society as well. This sounds unfair. We know that this is wrong; a people should not have to be told what to do by foreign rulers who know nothing of their culture and only have selfish interests in mind. Britain does not seem to understand that imperialism is not just a one way street; people’s lives are being ruined and lost. Or perhaps government officials’ interests are too important to think about the consequences for the people of imperialized places, like India, China, and Africa. In a letter from Lin Zexu to Queen Victoria, he enlightens us to the dangers of the Opium Trade in China. People are being exploited in a country that is not the “homeland”, or Britain. They are being used to profit Britain, at their own expense. People are dying. Does the government of our country care? No. Do the people of China deserve this disrespect? This unfairness? Why is it acceptable for Britain to exploit the people of China when opium is banned here for exactly these reasons? The answer is obvious: it is not right. Zexu points out that we know these dangers in Britain, which is why we have begun an Opium Trade in China, only considering our own people’s well being, or rather profit, and not others. “Suppose a man of another country comes to England to trade, he still has to obey the English laws; how much more should he obey in China the laws of the Celestial Dynasty?” states Zexu. Yes, why is it that we cannot respect the laws of other countries, much less our own laws? Why is it that we have to make them mold to our wants and not profit for themselves? I ask these questions because of all of the unfairness that is occurring all over the world on Britain’s behalf. We are exploiting peoples of many races, but they are not our own. This has to end. Imperialism is wrong.
I have been given the unique opportunity of delving into the life and society of India as of England’s control over the region. As an editor of the British Times Herald, I intend to give the readers a circumspect view of how British rule has impacted India as a whole. Many feel that this imperialism on England’s part is pure greed for economic gains. While the conquest of India has provided England with a wealth of economic goods, the enrichment that England has provided India provides for a fair balance of give and take. We are a nation that the sun never sets upon, and this includes our claims on India. We have brought educational growth to a people who had fallen behind civilization. Thomas Babington Macaulay, in 1835, explained how the Indian dialects are crude and lacking academic merit. Thankfully, our leaders have installed the English language as that of the intellectuals and prosperous members of Indian society. As explained by Macaulay, English is the most useful language across the globe, and we have greatly aided these people by introducing it. The educational benefits will arise from the British instilling western values of academics in the upper classes, who will then be able to establish a more effective system for the population to learn by. I had the good fortune of securing an interview with Dadabhai Naorogi, who as an Indian, is well-informed about the positive effects of British imperialism in India. He went on about the improvements there have been for humanity in general - suttee, the act of wives burning themselves alive when their husbands die, and infanticide have been eliminated by us. These barbaric acts no longer plague the Indian people, and they are thankful for it. Naorogi went on about how the political situation in India has improved dramatically. The people now enjoy freedom of speech and press, a stable government protected from despotic rulers, and protection from destruction by needless warfare. We are in the process of bringing their society to the same level of sophistication as Europe, which is a great feat considering the massive population of India. Naorogi also raves about improvements to irrigation, transportation, irrigation, and exports, which can be attributed to the hard work and benevolence of the British. Those who say the British are being selfish and greedy are clearly mistaken, and ignoring these wonderful contributions that we have made to the world, spreading technology, education, and overall civilization. Aside for the benefits to India, Britain’s imperialism on the subcontinent has reaped great rewards for the British people. The world is becoming a frightening place, and the more control we can assert, the better we can protect ourselves. Control over India is a win-win situation for everyone involved; British imperialism has led to, and will continue to lead to success.
British Times Herald: London, England-- Over the past several years, we have quelled the hearts of the savages and civilized their societies through imperialism. But at what cost? Behind the glory of our great empire are dark secrets. Turn your eyes to the history of our African territories.
Recall General Charles George Gordon, or better known as Chinese Gordon. Following his triumph in China, he was called into Sudan to oversee British interests. However, upon the sight of the condition of the people he made an effort to liberate the people. Truly, Gordon was the embodiment of British ideals, purely Christian with a heart devoted to the empire. The empire was dealt a severe blow as we heard the news of his death. He died like a soldier, fighting to the end and trapped in Khartoum with a poorly armed army and the Mahdi's overwhelming forces with no hope of rescue. Sudan was in a civil war, what business did we have in their affairs? Was it worth losing our nation's most beloved hero? Is it worth the shed of English blood at the hands of those barbarians?
Recall now Cecil Rhodes. He was an Englishman, a business man, an imperialist. But first and foremost, he was a business man with such a lustful greed for power that he would be ruthless for the growth of his enterprise. This ruthlessness showed upon his election as the Prime Minister of South Africa. In office, he passed laws that made no political sense. But a closer look exhibits his underlying ambitions. He was using the government to support his business! Furthermore, this ruthlessness grew, as demonstrated in his conquest in what is now known as Rhodesia. Rhodes stormed in with mercenaries and maxim guns and mercilessly massacred the natives who were clearly at an arms disadvantage. Where is the decency? Savages as the natives were, they were still human. They deserved to die as humans, not slaughtered like livestock! Even more haunting, this attack paved the way for an unprovoked attack on the Boers. Despite growing anti Boer sentiment, these people are civilized and preceding attack showed no hostility. As a result of his actions, Rhodes has dragged all of Britain into war with the Boers. This conflict is shattering the morale of our people! We grieve as our newspapers read out the deaths of our loved ones, the same ones who marched down the streets of London with pride but now lie in a foreign grave.
We are a large empire. We are so vast that our land has become a breeding ground for violence and lustful greed. In the name of, Britain we must discontinue our pursuit of other territories! We must secure our holdings and ensure our power in the world! What will the future hold? --Justin Go Editor
Dear Editor I find myself concerned about our country’s current imperialistic attitude towards the world. Recent events, particularly the Boer Wars, have alarmed me to the point where I cannot help but express my concerns in hopes that others learn the truth about imperialism. To begin with, I would like to dismiss any claims that my lack of support for imperialism shows that I lack love for my country. Rather, it is love for my country that motivates me to write this letter. The advocates of imperialism claim that imperialism is good England because it is economically favorable and because we Englishmen have a duty to improve the lives of the savages around the world. I shall briefly outline the flaws of this line of thinking. First I shall address the claim that imperialism is of economic benefit to England. It is true that the practice has brought wealth, but a problem arises as England comes to dominate more land. The Boer War started with England’s desire to conquer gold rich land. The venture ended in chaos. Nearly a quarter of a million troops were deployed. This proved costly in terms of money and lives. I fear that as England expands, it will be drawn into more conflicts that will hurt it. Consider now the case of Cecil Rhodes. He spent his time and wealth attempting to connect Egypt and South Africa with a railroad. What purpose would such a railroad serve? England has no problem shipping goods to and from South Africa from the sea. Rhodes’s railroad held no economic benefit, but reflected his desire for power and prestige. It is this kind of blind pride and ego that comes with imperialism that could lead a nation into its downfall. We must be careful in ensuring that every action we take serves as an economic benefit. Instead of expanding, England should limit and reduce what it already has to solidify and stabilize its empire. Furthermore, the belief that Englishman have a duty to improve the lives of savages seems to me a thinly disguised excuse to continue imperialism rather than a true argument. Our actions have been for our own benefit, and benefit that came to the natives was merely a side effect. Babington’s “On Empire and Education” is a perfect example of how little care we show. In his paper, Babington considers whether or not to educate the Indian people. If it is truly our duty to help the people, why then should we even consider withholding the boon of education? There are other such cases. Consider China, where we dump our supplies of opium, knowing the harm it will do to the people. Consider Sudan, where an army was deployed to suppress what many considered a popular uprising. If we truly wish to uphold our honor as Englishmen, then we should end such actions at once. I hope that the contents of this letter have helped to show the negative aspects of imperialism. Sincerely, Ariq Rahman
As a superior nation, a state so successful within Europe, actions of imperialism seem justified when the effects of it are not. Extending control over a foreign land for the purpose of political advancement is strictly unacceptable. A sovereign state has its own right to form government and practice cultural beliefs without persecution from superior nations. When contemplating the act of imperialism, one must always empathize with whom they wish to control. I guarantee nobody would like someone destroying his or her ancestral beliefs, ancient culture, and enforcing a religion upon him. So ultimately what gives Britain the right when Britain would not accept the same fate? This is exactly why I take a negative stance when regarding imperialism.
For example, The East India Company interjected on sati, an Indian practice where the woman burns herself over the husband’s burial site. This act of sati shows true devotion from wife to husband, and symbolizes the hope of a better afterlife. However cruel and terrible this action seems, it is a belief held close to heat by many Indians. They have the right to show allegiance to their culture and their family. By banning acts of sati in certain areas of Britain, their culture is being destroyed and is failing to be preserved. We British are controlling and grooming foreigners to their cultural standards. This action of imperialism is unfortunate because the way of life of numerous women is being controlled.
Imperialism can have detrimental affects in the instance of Opium in China’s markets. This action has caused the death of many Chinese citizens. It is unfortunate that the British feel the need to have an input on the order of other nations. Britain is essentially destroying every sense of diversity and teamwork found in Europe and the rest of the world. We should focus on improving our own nation and becoming as centralized as possible without feeling the urge to control and help surrounding nations in a commanding manner. As a strong country, it is imperative that we set a good example to help improve our neighbors, rather than imposing our force upon them via the terrible habit, imperialism.
England’s current policy of imperialism is pure evil. Never before has a powerful nation exploited the natural resources of weaker nations on such a wide scale. The main purpose of British imperialism is the acquisition of wealth to compete against other European nations. A negative side-effect of this mentality is that the British saw the natives as an obstacle to their power, and ruthlessly expelled them from their land or enslaved them. The African continent is one of the most notable examples of the terrible impact of British imperialism. British influence in Africa began with Egypt due to the importance of the crucial Suez Canal. Although public opinion in Britain at the time was not completely in favor of imperialism, events such as the death of Charles Gordon changed the public opinion towards intervention and imperialism in Africa.
With the newfound public support, British ambitions for Africa grew. Cecil Rhodes was responsible for the creation of many British colonies in Africa. One of his most important goals was to build a railroad from Cape Town to Cairo. Rhodes became extremely wealthy by funding diamond mining operations in South Africa, and he used this wealth to fund his endeavors. The frenzy caused by the discovery of diamond could be seen by the virtually overnight rise of boomtowns near diamond mining sites. This lust for materialistic wealth did not bode well for the natives. When diamonds were discovered in Matabeleland, Rhodes had his eyes on the country. He manipulated King Lobengula into signing a document that gave Rhodes enormous power over Matabeleland. Rhodes also took the opportunity to destroy Lobengula’s power. When the British’s hired mercenaries fought with Logenbula’s army, the Maxim gun allowed the British to brutally defeat the Africans. In later years, under Rhodes’s suggestion, Africans in British colonies were disenfranchised. This shows that the motivation behind British imperialism in Africa was to use their African colonies natural resources and that the British did whatever it took to accomplish this. To the British, Africans were merely obstacles in their goal of becoming a more powerful nation. If the British continues these acts of brutality towards the African natives, there will have severe consequences in the future.
In conclusion, the British created African colonies for the sole purpose of exploiting their natural resources. The British crushed the natives who stood in the way of fulfilling this purpose. The terrible acts committed by the British in Africa will have serious repercussions. England must reverse its imperialistic policy because either way, England will not be able to hold on to what didn’t belong to them in the first place.
Let’s face it. At first glance imperialism looks like this awful horrifying concept. No one willingly wants to be taken over by a foreign rule and have a new culture, language and lifestyle forced on them. And that is just the beginning of what Great Britain is doing with their policy of imperialism. So yes, imperialism is pretty evil. However, it’s not all bad. India is a great example of imperialism at its best and worst. As we see from the educated politician of India, Dadabhai Naoroji, British rule in India has actually really helped a great deal of their society, especially when it comes to the humanities. The practice of suttee (women burning themselves alive on their dead husband’s pyre) has unfortunately been a time-honored tradition in India, but with the entrance of Great Britain, that along with infanticide has thankfully been abolished. And this policy has made a very progressive move to help Hindu women by allowing them the widows to remarry. Poverty is also a dramatic challenge they face in India, and England has done its part to help the effects of this by providing charitable aid when famine strikes. Another positive aspect that India has excelled in due to British rule is security. It’s hard to believe that foreign rulers who are only looking to expand would care about peace and order in society, but they do. And they have instilled these practices in the Indian society. This along with more freedom, like speech and press, is greatly appreciated in contrast to the chaotic unjust lives the natives led before. But behind those benefits, imperialism does have its major drawbacks, that being…it’s still imperialism. Great Britain has exhausted and deprived India of all its resources, and failed to let them reap any of the rewards. Taking over the land also implies taking over all the money involved with that land, even money that doesn’t exist. England’s greed has found and exhausted every available source of wealth in the country through unjust taxes. They force the natives to just pay more and more and more, but yet leave them no way to increase their income. This just keeps rallying up the total amount of debt accumulated in the country. To the natives Great Britain has most simply overstayed their welcome. They are fortunate and grateful for all they have done socially, but they are trying to control too much, and in reality their policy of imperialism is burning bridges across the world.
Editor, British Times Herald: The subject of imperialism in our fine empire has been a topic of frequent debate quite recently in lieu of our troops invading and “colonizing” underdeveloped countries such as India and Africa, and even attempting to colonize very civilized nations like China. Is expanding our empire really worth jeopardizing these indigenous people's happiness and well-being? Simply put, no it is not. Clearly you have those who support the idea, who will say that imperialism is needed to make our nation greater than it already is. Someone who, like John Stuart Mill, will say that colonization is a “self-supporting system” and insist that this plan would be more efficient as the years pass by. The likes of him have compared this new idea of “colonizing” Africa to settling in areas such as South Australia, Victoria and New Zealand. This is not the case. One cannot predict the likelihood of success in a country based upon previous success with others. These are different kinds of people that will be dealt with and one never knows how they will react to such an attempt. He continues on in “On Colonies and Colonization” to explain how easy it would be for citizens of the mother country (Britain) to emigrate to Africa and decrease the overpopulation problem. However he says nothing about the fate of those already living there. Edward Morel tells within “The Black Man's Burden” details of how these poor people will have to deal with the English taking over their homeland. We have brought over disease and ways of life that they find strange and unnecessary. True, most of them are uneducated and illiterate, but what purpose to we have taking their way of life away from them? They have lived there for centuries without bothering anyone else and I completely feel it is wrong to try to imprison them into our ways of life. I think that Morel says it perfectly when he claims the ways of imperialism “enslaves him in his own home”, speaking of the Africans. These people are virtually defenseless and it would be in England's best interest not to expand into Africa.
My good Indian people, you hear all this fuss over imperialism and the British Empire. You may be a bit confused and unsure what to believe. We all know the British and her policies, for the “sun never sets on the British Empire.” However, the British policy of imperialism IS unjust and unnecessary. The British government would like to keep us ignorant to keep us submissive. To that I say, No! We need knowledge to awaken our ambition so our fine country can be everything it possibly can be. The British exclude us from high office, therefore disenabling us from participating in decision making. Countless times we have been pledged the right to have a fair and reasonable share in higher office in our own country. Yet time after time, this right has been denied and we the natives of the country are left powerless in our homeland. The British word is to no longer be trusted! Neither are we treated not as British subjects, where representation is a birthright. However, most frustrating of all is how our feelings are completely disregarded and tossed aside. We are the ones that live in this country and we are the voices that should be heard. We have no one to guide our rising generation because the British government has drained the wisdom and the practical administration. Our languages that have been spoken by us throughout history and are held very close to us, they are about to be ripped right out from under us. Our languages are beautiful, sentimental, and a way of our life. However, to the British our languages have neither scientific nor literally information. Leaving it useless, poor, rude, and untranslatable. The British want to place one common language among us, it is absurd. We have no need to learn the history of European countries and the stories of their world. We have our own language, our own history, and our own country that can not and should not be forgotten! The new education Britain has given to female and males of our country has led to the destruction of superstition and many moral and social evils. Our own noble literature has been modified and refined by the enlightenment of the West, that it is no longer ours. Not only is Britain using India, they are putting a financial burden on us. They have imposed means of taxation on us, yet we receive no pay raise. We have a debt of 100,000,000 and of that British colonies contributed 3,000,000 to the debt, which is entirely unnecessary. But most of all, the constant and continuous impoverishment and exhaustion of the country has hindered India and we the people. Even with the very acute relief Britain has provided to India, great masses of poor have hardly any food or money a day, and to their name only a few rags. The British government had the power to prevent these famines and yet they chose not to. The people’s welfare is not valued by the British. Under British control and the imperialism policy, our great nation has crumbled. We need to stand up and take control of our country once more, for only we truly know what is best for our people and our country. Unlike some foreigners.
What would the world be without the British Empires imperialism? As an editor of this great newspaper the “British Times” I can’t lie to you and be the nice guy I simply have to state the facts as they are. The world without British Imperialism would be an unsettled frontier with uneducated barbarians running around aimlessly. When our country expands and settles in other countries what we bring is an established government, education, order, and properness. What are the other continents and countries without these you might ask, and to answer that, the continents or countries are almost nothing. These countries are not settled have no laws and have great poverty and terrible living conditions. When the British Empire expands it doesn’t make living conditions better for everyone but it does provide order and the necessities for people to leave poverty like educations. We also bring to the other areas better medical procedures which ultimately extend the life expectancy. When I first traveled to Africa before Britain had taken too much control over it I noticed the extreme poverty and the average life expectancy was very low. As the years went by and I was studying imperialism I noticed the improvements we were making to these new parts of our empire and the change was amazing. Now if you are still skeptical on the subject of imperialism than you must look at also how it helps our home country. By expanding to other areas we potentially grow the amount of coastline we control which ultimately allows for our country to grown in trading and military power. Imperialism is the best thing for our country because when expanding to other areas we get more natural resources a larger working force if needed, and we show the world that we are the most powerful nation. Financially expanding to other countries is initially expensive but the overall payout from goods and natural resources produced in these countries is extremely high and is the right decision. Imperialism is a very important thing to take part in as a country because it sends a message to other countries that you are a force not to be messed with. In the end Imperialism is the greatest thing for ourselves and the people in the lands we expand to because we get so much natural resources when we expand and we bring so many advancements to these countries which improve them. So if you’re not sure whether imperialism is right or not just look at the facts and statistics and you will see that Imperialism is the way to go. Long live the Queen and also this great empire which the sun never sets on.
Right now, there is no doubt that Britain stands as the great power of the world. With holdings in India, Africa, in addition to attempts at China, there are very few nations who can stand up to what Britain has achieved. But what has been the cost of all of this Imperialism leading to land and power? Some strongly agree with the ideals of Imperialism and what it has to offer, yet I certainly do not. I feel that there are tons of flaws with Imperialism in addition to the British policy concerning it these days. The selfishness of us British has really caused problems in the nations that we control including deaths as well as destruction of land and culture. My main concerns rest in the area of Africa, where British citizens such as Cecil Rhodes have caused major damages. Everyone knows Rhodes and his racist antics. His indulgence in diamonds and lands that were not even his started off his imperialism. Rhodes was infamous for taking advantage of the Natives of Africa. He fought with them for control of land, and he used much more advanced weaponry than they had to incite a massacre. This was a completely unfair move by Rhodes. He also came to develop extremely racist ideas that spread to many other places, the main part of which stated that "the white man was superior to anyone else." These racist thoughts came about because of this Imperialism and the desire for control over all other people. Once the end of the Boer War came and the Imperialism in Africa by the British came close to an end (as far as I see it), the expansion did not end up helping anyone except for the British, who had a large hunger for other lands. Rhodes strongly desired land and power, and kept on fighting against much weaker opponents. Even though during the Boer War the Dutch won the first part, as more and more British troops were shipped down to Africa, England was able to gain victory. Then after the brutal defeat of the Boers, some were put into prison camps with harsh conditions. Even though this is recent news, many people, including myself, are opposing the internment of the Boers. Many are dying everyday and the British military in charge does not care one bit. Finally, money is being put into this expansion that should be kept within Britain for certain improvements. Britain is really only in this for money and land and all in all, imperialism is not benefiting the rest of the world. Yes, Imperialism is helping to create Britain as a major world power, but is it worth it to destroy lives, land, and even whole cultures? Please ask yourselves that question in order to make an informed decision about this vital issue.
In the past decade, our nation, amongst others, has been in a scramble to imperialize countries; mainly Africa and Asia. Our great nation of Britain controls a large fraction of the Earth, and rightfully so, because we rightfully are on the top rung. Recently, however, public opinion has started to sway towards abolishing further ambitions for imperialism. While we have done great things that benefit the countries under our rule, I still believe that our expansion has to stop. The detrimental effects of imperialism can be seen by viewing the partitioning of Africa by European countries. Over the past several decades, the scramble for Africa has caused many violent clashes and unnecessary deaths. We as Europeans have exploited our power and military dominance to unfairly manipulate the African people. In Rhodesia, the Maxim gun was used to slaughter thousands of indigenous tribal warriors. How can we be helping these people if we are massacring them for the sole purpose of land and resources? We say that we are modernizing these barbarians by teaching them the ways of the west, but how are we helping them when they are being forced off their land so we can search for gold? The same selfishness can be seen in China. Although the trade of opium is banned here in Great Britain, our government practically encourages merchants to sell it abroad in China. Not only are we directly causing chaos, but we as a nation are now being seen as barbarians too, and for good reason; we are destroying the order of the world solely for economical benefits. In India, we are abusing our dominance and using the resources for industrial benefits here in England. While this does boost us economically, it is costing India large sums of money and labor. By creating an embargo in India to force them to only trade with us, we are paying a fraction of the price for raw goods, causing the wages of the Indian workers to dramatically decrease. In addition to needless deaths and casualties, our expansion has destroyed cultural traditions of the nations that we control. In India, for example, we have taken control of their government. Our abuse of the caste system allows us to easily control a large portion of the country with little effort. While we may be educating the people and removing some inhumane customs, we still exert a predominantly English force onto their culture. The number of British government workers is such a small percent of the whole Indian population that the Indians cannot get what they want. The threat of imperialization in Japan has forced them to modernize away from the honorable feudal system. To replace warlords with samurais, military modernization brings in European/American generals and guns. This causes civil unrest in Japan, with the samurais waging battles against the new Japanese Imperial Army. As seen all around the world, our imperialism has brought much turbulence to simple countries who simply want to be free and uncontrolled by an outside force. Despite all we have done to benefit them, we are still applying force. As the Indians say, we are a “sugar-coated knife”.
There has been a recent tend towards empire expansion in the African continent. This is driven by men who have been stationed there by the British Government, and seem to act on their own whims. This cannot be allowed if the Great British Empire is to be seen as prestigious as we, the people, would like our country to be seen. These acts are not only uncalled for, they can be directly correlated with the “barbarians” that the men seek to conquer and destroy. But, this is not a new humanistic feature that is being demonstrated by the British stationed in Africa, mainly the Sudan. This practice of imperialism has been practiced by many civilizations worldwide for ages. This practice of seeking to expand one’s country not only geographically, but economically, should be a considered a crime against nature. To put down one civilization in order to create for your own is simply foolish. The man that is currently putting his not only imperialistic, but racist ideas on Africa is one Cecil Rhodes. He is the archetypal imperialist, seeking only to expand his own riches and conquer land. His main goal is to construct a railroad system that would connect Cairo to the Cape. A noble idea in its early stages, but the lengths that this man would take to realize his goal would be astonishing. He had a total disregard for whoever was in his way during this conquest. He wanted this railroad built and that was the end of it. In order to reach his goal he initiated a war with the neighboring Bohrs. This would end up being extremely costly for the British at the time. What he thought would be an easy victory ended up being one of the biggest military movements the British had ever endeavored on. The Bohrs were armed extremely heavily with Maxim guns, and knowledge of the time. This ended up being costly economically and in life. Deaths can even be connected back to the Royal Family. This shows how the evils of imperialism can rear its ugly head at any turn. I beg that if you are reading this paper, show some interest in what I have told you. Tell your neighbors, anyone that will listen and preach to them the evils of imperialism, so Britain can
The age of Imperialism has dominated our homeland for decades, and now, as Britons, we find ourselves asking: Is this worldwide domination worth its setbacks? In India, our efforts to pursue the white man’s burden has led to high tolls, but even more substantial gains as it comes to economic growth. Imperialism in nations such as this is beneficial not only to us, the mother country, but to the people positively changed by our rule. We have found our economy growing exponentially with the takeover of Indian resources in our aid, and in this way strengthened our own industries here at home. Our arrival in this country has led to their much needed acceleration in industrialization, as we have brought the mechanics of railroads and other wondrous technology these people would not have otherwise been given the chance to enjoy. We have brought to them the riches of industry and mines, while enjoying their prospects for ourselves as well-deserved payment. Our supremacy has proved to be rightful and helpful in bettering the Indian barbarism as it was before, helping to change it into a civilized society. No more shall the customs of horrific bonfires continue, women throwing themselves atop these heaps similar to pagan sacrificial ceremonies once gaped at by enlightened men! We have bestowed our English education and customs upon these people, ceasing to allow horrific practices to take place, and instead introduced secondary schools and colleges to those willing to learn. We have even allowed those noble enough to be trained to join as subordinates in our illustrious army and government. Our nation has brought the virtues of a functioning society to a land plagued with civil wars and unrest; we have forever improved the lives of so many, as it is our right and duty to do so! Therefore, the continuation of imperialism in all its practices has several more benefits than drawbacks, as it further strengthens our nation and proves to the world the worth of British customs as deemed by God true. In order to spread these, necessary force must be taken, as the example of a now changed India shows us.
My dear fellow Englishmen, I’m touching on a delicate matter this day. Imperialism: Good or Evil? I find it to be good. We proud Englishmen are bringing light to the dark countries that need us to bring them up to speed with the world. Take India for example; it is a place we help greatly. Did you know that the women there are forced to jump onto their husband’s funeral pyre in the practice of suttee? What an atrocity! Even though it is only in certain parts of India, we civilized people must show them the way; and the way is our way. But it is difficult to teach these savages anything without causing them to have feelings of dissent. They clearly lack the comprehension to civilize themselves. We give them so many good things to top it off. We gave them education for one; as they seem to be able to learn if we train them in the right areas and show them our greatness over their own. Our education is also clearing their superstitious nature away, making way for our ideals. Through all these things we also allow them to largely maintain their own government; as long as we English get to call the big shots. Clearly the Indian’s are an example of England’s great achievements. I’m sure you have all also heard of our expansion into Africa. It is a harsh place, full of violent, aggressive natives. Our very own General Charles Gordon was killed in Africa defending the weak from Mahdist forces. This only shows that these people need our help more than ever. We can give them a better life like Cecil Rhodes tried to do, or at least he did at the start. We should not take Rhodes last moves against the Boers as the only action he did, although he made a mistake there. His efforts to expand our great England should be an example to us all. Imagine all these people helped by us; growing and prospering because we gave them aid. Our strength will be unmatched because of all our colonies. No matter the setbacks that may occur, England will be steadfast! To our Great Imperialistic Nation! ~Devil’s Advocate
The lion does not get to the top of the food chain only to squander away his earnings to those who he has dominated. Instead, he flexes his power and dominates those weaker than him and earns the right to be called “King of the Jungle”. Britain has exerted this same dominance throughout the world and should not end now. If we ended our vast imperialism and expansionism, that could be seen as a sign of weakness in this dangerous world. In regions such as India, we have exposed the native people to our rich and vast culture. These natives, living in almost primitive conditions, have never experienced such language and culture before we arrived. Not only have we taught them our language, we have shown them the best works of literature that they would have never experienced before if we had not expanded the great British empire into their regions. The British Empire is the greatest and most dominate in the world, is it not right for these people to learn the English language? By also expanding into the region of India, we have also saved thousands from ruthless and barbarian traditions. Women would throw themselves atop a fire if their husband had died along with thousands of infants had been slaughtered because of a barbaric tradition. Such disregard for human life should not be tolerated anywhere in the world. By expanding into these regions, we have saved many and begun the change that is needed to end these inhuman traditions. We have brought the Indian culture from the past to the present. We have brought them from their primitive tongues, to the language of her majesty’s empire. They have been given work, culture, and new experiences that they would never have the opportunity to have if we did not expand into their region. In return, we have received a vast amount of resources to help with the increasing industrialization of our great empire. The sun never sets on the British Empire, and we shall never let that sun set by ending the imperialism that our Empire was built upon.
This country has fought through many dangerous wars and battles in the brave fight for glory. Under glorious Kings and Queens, we have shown Europe what we are capable of. Now, in the midst of a new era, we must continue to prove our dominance over those who dare to challenge us. Competing for colonies, struggling for new resources, and building up impenetrable economies, many countries have both directly and indirectly mocked and sneered at us. It is time we show these Russians, Germans, and the people of France what Britain can really do. We must show them through our only hope of imperialism. If we are to beat every other major power in Europe we need to prove just how dominant Britons can be over lesser souls and their countries. Though not just for competition’s sake, imperialism must be practiced for the sake of surviving in this world. Social Darwinism has showed us that if we do not keep up with others, than we Britons will not be the ones to survive in the future. So, for our sake, we need to prove that we can rule militarily, politically, and economically, over different countries. Otherwise, we may just fade to the background, and only the fittest will survive in society. Also, for the more humanitarian readers out there, I must not fail to mention the burden that we white men carry. As the superior race in the world, we must see to it that lesser people in society learn our ways. It is our duty to provide them the necessary tools to shed their primitive habits and learn our idealistic ways of life. We have a moral responsibility to make sure that people, such as the Blacks and Asians, live responsible and developed life. Take those people in India for example, before we Britons came along they had nothing. Through the advice of the ingenious Rudyard Kipling, we took it upon ourselves to make sure that the brown people had proper education and necessities for life. Through a mindset full of moral values, we made India a better place for learning and growing up. If we follow through with humanitarian efforts, other countries will stare in awe at our marvelous souls. They will follow our example, making themselves subjects, and us Britons the leaders of Europe. Now let me speak to those market buffs who I know picks this paper up and reads it every morning for the latest values and economic issues. You must know all about Britain’s increasing need for resources such as rubber and tin. Through the domination of other countries we may find those resources and harness them for our economy. Values will skyrocket and our economy will be in better shape than ever before. This is the power of imperialism. This is what can happen if we support our leaders in their imperialistic policies. HEY YOU READER. Do you not love your country? Do you not have nationalistic pride running through your veins? Do you not want the best for our beloved Britain? Imperialism will reap so many benefits, the first and foremost is for you: PRIDE.
Imperialism is probably a very delicate topic to write an editorial on, particularly in the moral outrage it tends to provoke today. With a lot of cultures thriving under nationalism now, the idea of having another culture or way of life so firmly superimposed over your own seems horrible. And indeed, the Europeans did some pretty horrible things to the people that they subjugated. But they also weren’t entirely the cruel and evil barbarians that some modern historians tend to eagerly slap on the title of. It would be completely one-sided and biased to claim the rule of Europeans had no adverse effects. Indeed, China is a prime example of this. When England was losing money to the Chinese in their very imbalanced trade, they sought to find a material that was cheap but that would produce a big profit and a big demand in Chinese profits. Though Opium was illegal in Great Britain because of it’s addictive qualities, the people of England didn’t seem to think it a problem to simply turn a blind eye to the tons of drug being shipped into China and getting the people there cracked up on it. This typified the overlying feeling of the age of imperialism, where Europeans allowed themselves higher moral ground and special standings in the eyes of themselves and each other. The age of Imperialism was a time of rampant egos, where the white men of Europe thought of it as their job to send out their sons and soldiers in order to take over the inferior peoples of the African, Indian, and often Asian continents. It was an egotistical delusion in their own culture that made them think that all other cultures were inferior and barbaric, and that it was really their duty to make sure they followed the path of the white man as closely and as efficiently as possible. In the meantime, while it does not completely justify their actions at all, imperialists can at least be pardoned for some key points. Firstly is that they truly were trying to do well in society. Although it wasn’t seen this way by the natives, the imperialists were ultimately trying to spread the benefits of their society to those less fortunate. While they went about it in an entirely unhelpful and domineering way, their intentions do seem to have been backed by good intentions, which does improve their image a little. Also, oftentimes in the manner of trying to make the people of native lands more ‘civilized’, they provided them with educational opportunities they wouldn’t have gotten if they had merely stayed at home. Ultimately, while the wrongs of the attitude are basically irreconcilable and reek of an egocentricism that will persist long after the foundation of Social Darwinism, some of the benefits and good intentions behind imperialism help it to redeem itself.
Since the time of the signing of the Magna Carta, where the British people at last had obtained a fair measure of power, Britain has been at the centre of the world, both economically and politically. God has made it clear to us that the Anglo-saxon English man is clearly the one meant to dominate this Earth. Nothing more would warm this editor's heart than to see the colours of Britain's majestic red and blue flag flying over every single country in the world. Already, we Britains inhabit the country who controls nearly 20% of the world's population and rules over an empire so vast, that the sun will never set upon it. Does God's favour not shine upon us unendingly like the sun upon our awe-inspiring empire? Is it not clear?
Not many months previous, Rudyard Kipling wrote a delightful poem entitled, "The White Man's Burden," and truly it is a burden. We must "Fill full the mouth of Famine And bid the sickness cease...[and] seek another's profit, And work another's gain". Whilst Kipling is correct in his statements, it is misconstrued. We should not view civilising and improving other civilisations a burden, but as a god-given-duty to this world. It not a duty, but an opportunity for us British to help the world and educate the heathens.
This magazine has repeatedly stated its belief in the benefits of imperialism throughout the globe in the past. In India, we have acted only in benefit of the indigenous peoples. We have educated them and taught them our language. The upper class has even taken it as their own.
In the African region, we have civilised areas of Africa from South Africa all the way up to Cairo. With us we have brought unbelievable wealth for the people, not just in money, but in knowledge in technology as well, technology that they would not have been able to obtain for at least another score of millenia without the help of intelligent British minds.
Thomas Macaulay half a century ago gave a speech called, "On Empire and Education". He also argues for the education of those we rule over in India. Whilst I do agree with minor premises made in Macaulay's speech about education, the underlying arguments presented in his speech are wrong. He claims that our holding of such a vast empire is a "despicable policy". Macaulay, sadly, is naive and highly idealistic. Surely, he cannot truly believe that such a barbaric people who had practices of burning widows could ever hope to accomplish anything without the help of the mighty British empire?
Macaulay, also has the wrong ideals in mind. It is not for profit that we should so civilise the Indians, it is for the aforementioned, "White Man's Burden". I must yet again restate and reemphasise, that it is not for profit that the British empire should work towards expanding its already mighty empire. It is for God, glory and country that we pursue imperialism to this end.
This humble editor will continue to support imperialism, and the spread of true British Godliness to the rest of the world as a true servant of God and his Will.
For my readers who cheer for Rhodes’ triumphs, do you recall this statement of his? Rhodes once boasted, “If there be a God, I think what he would like me to do is to paint as much of Africa British red as possible.” However, supporting Rhodes is not supporting the “British red.” It is endorsing the spillage of red blood, the massacre of indigenous people. Africa is already painted with Boer red, Sudanese red, and Matabele red. Rhodes calls the natives barbarians, savages, inferior people, and many other derogatory terms, but, dear readers, please do not fall captive to his words. Those “inferior people” had the courage to stand up to his Maxim guns with spears and clubs. The “barbarians” included simple farmers; they were families trying to defend their land. Where is the justice in the slaughter of such people? Nearly half a century ago, the Chinese Commissioner in Canton pronounced the British barbarians, and now, our beloved empire’s current policies have truly turned us into such. We have blindly tottered after Rhodes as he strode forward with insatiable personal ambition and tolerated his actions by accepting his mollifying speeches. How foolish were we to idolize the man who founded Rhodesia. He is no Alexander the Great, and we are not an ancient civilization. The British Empire is a respectable entity, dedicated to serving its citizens. To those who cry that imperialism is for the benefit of our glorious country, I recognize that Britain benefits from conquests. However, our current policies are too aggressive and too heartless. Kipling wrote that we ought to “Take up the White Man’s burden - / The savage wars of peace –” (lines 17-18), but Britain is not fighting for peace now. Instead, our savage wars are for plunder and prosperity. For example, Rhodes authorized his men to kill 3,000 natives in one day for his gold mines. The profit from the gold cannot return the steep cost of slaughtering those men.
Instead of senseless murder, imperialism should be more like it was in India. There, we actually helped the people in some aspects. We provided education, which is important even if many were reluctant to do so. Furthermore, even native Indians attested to our beneficial presence. Dadabhai Naoroji praises the progress made, especially “in the cause of humanity.” His only complaints involved politics, finances, and raw materials, but those are typical contentions between an empire and its new addition. Overall, British influence saved and improved lives in India. Imperialism should improve both the conquering nation and the conquered nation. Britain needs to revert back to the humane method of expanding her empire, because the current standard of massacre is not acceptable. How can we be the empire on which the "Sun Never Sets" if our actions are not fit to be carried out in the sunlight? How can we preach Christianity when we do not obey even the basic tenets of not coveting or murdering? British behavior in Africa has turned our empire into a hypocritical charlatan.
One of the dominating issues in Britain as of late has been the topic of imperialism. The word “Imperialism”, synonymous with the thieving acts of tearing through foreign nations in search of wealth has been proclaimed to the people of this country to be supported by various theories such as “survival of the fittest”. However, as one who knows firsthand about the true nature of Imperialism I write this editorial today to explain the waste of the lives that are lost fighting this unseen war outside our country. One example that I believe shows the true waste of lives that our nation has abused in its pursuit of power would be the power scramble of Africa between the British and various other European nations. As a citizen of Britain I feel ashamed that my country could be at the forefront of such evil towards an indigenous population. If my personal knowledge about the issues at hand in the African continent was not where it presently is, I would feel proud to know that the man named Cecil Rhodes was a Britain like myself. However, what the news fails to tell the majority of the population is how this man has gained such incredible power and wealth. His goal of creating a trans-continental railroad across Africa nags his daily thoughts and causes him to do anything in his power (which happens to be quite a lot) in order to achieve this goal. His ever increasing greed for more monetary wealth was evident when tricked the native king Lobengula to hand over all of his land and basically all of his power to Rhodes. Here is where the destruction of lives comes into play. After obtaining all of the Matabeleland land, Rhodes pressed on wards with an army of hired mercenaries equipped with a titanic weapon of massacre, the Maxim gun. In a single day this hired army killed 1,500 Matabele while losing only 4 men thus proving my point about an unnecessary loss of lives due to our nations increasing support of imperialism. I know that it is hard for much of the population and especially the wealthy who are reaping the benefits of British imperialism to see the negativity that this process is doing to indigenous nations. However, I like to think that as a nation we can see the mistakes we are making by pursuing world domination and an empire on which the sun will never set. Instead of concentrating our vast wealth and resources overseas in nations some of us will never get to see, we should us this wealth to improve our crumbling society and to build ourselves up to a nation that will never crumble like the fallen empires of Rome and Persia.
The Age of Imperialism has inevitably dawned on Britain. Our great Queen Victoria now controls nearly one fifths of the world’s population. Yet, despite Britain’s glory, imperialism will soon prove to be far less than a boon to our glorious nation. Imperialism has already proved itself a risky effort that has caused us to make many enemies around the world. By instilling our culture onto indigenous peoples elsewhere in the world, who have histories of their own, we are giving these people a “knife of sugar”, as said by Badabhai Naoroji when criticizing the British in India. Although there are instances where our holding of their nation benefitted the people greatly, such as allowing the people to create infrastructure, but no matter how sweet the knife we give to India, “a knife…is a knife notwithstanding.” By continuing imperialism, we are risking revolts against Britain from, though inferior, countless numbers of people. Is taking over a barbaric land worth the blood spilled of our British counterparts? And even if we are in control, how long will this control last? Already, precious British blood has been spilled in the name of imperialism. We have already managed to gain enemies, such as China. For many centuries, China had closed its doors to the outside world. In the past century, however, we have been interacting with the empire, trading with them for precious tea and resources. In return for their valuables, we have sold them our opium from the India. The Chinese quickly became addicted to this opium, and we were able to ingeniously turn the rhythm of the trade around in our favor. Yet, this addictive drug has proved to give detrimental effects on China. Many people have died from its effects, such as the Emperor’s son, and the demand for opium has depleted the Chinese treasury. In letters to our great Queen Victoria, Lin Zexu, the Chinese commissioner at Canton, diplomatically asked the British to stop the importation of the blighting drug to China. As Lin stated, we have “no regard for injuring others.” He asks bluntly, “How can you bear to go further, selling products injurious to others in order to fulfill your insatiable desire?” By selling opium to the Chinese, we were not benefiting China or its people; it is with greed for money that we continued to allow the Chinese to suffer their transient lives under the influence of opium. When the Chinese attempted to stop opium importation and use, we blasted their harbors open and looted their valuables. Our actions, though they were for the benefit for the growth of our empire, not only spilled the blood of our own soldiers, but also caused other nations to view the British Empire with contempt and condescension. Even imperialism and the prize of foreign goods and lands are not worth the great British Empire to lose its dignity and status in the world. Is taking up the white man’s burden worth the retribution we will receive for our efforts? The answer to this question, and thus to the question of whether or not imperialism is beneficial, is no. As Rudyard Kipling points out in his infamous poem, “The White Man’s Burden”, in attempting to change the ways of the silent and the sullen, no matter what our intentions, we will be met with opposition and anger, and viewed as foreign monsters that hunger for power. With domination also comes responsibility for the well-being of the people. If not cared for, the people will cause unrest, and further bloodshed will be seen. If imperialism is such a white man’s burden, with few foreseen lasting benefits for our great empire, why take up this burden?
British Times-Herald: London, England – Over the past few centuries, our marvelous nation, Great Britain, has been at the forefront of world progress in every conceivable way. We have dominated the world as a great “mother country”. We have created an empire on which the sun never sets. Our economic dominance over many lands has lead to lucrative gains for Britons, but, do the ends justify the means? Does the wealth and prestige that we have accrued compensate for the loss of freedom and life of other human beings? I say no. While worldly riches are appealing to every color and creed, murder and enslavement do not justify obtaining them. In order to maintain control of our possessions in Africa, Her Majesty’s military has embarked upon two violent, unnecessary expeditions. In the Sudan, thousands of natives were mercilessly slaughtered in a single day. Is money worth the lives of 10,000 men, even if they can be considered barbaric? And even then, who are we to judge whose cultures are barbaric and whose are not. In the eyes of the native African, the white, western man may be the barbarian who invades other lands and slaughters for money. In other places, such as India, our presence is not wanted. Dadabhai Naoroji called the British control of India, a “knife of sugar.” While some of them may enjoy our “enlightened” rule, hence the sugar, a knife is a knife none the less. While they may enjoy the social reform and the restructuring of their governments, we are still stabbing them, as we are the Africans, by stealing their natural resources and dominating their economy. Progress can be made no where if the natives are not the ones progressing. We can not enter under the pretenses that it is our duty to help the natives, and then fail to properly help anyone but ourselves. It is this fundamental flaw in imperialism that makes it such and evil policy. The natives are told that we are here to help them progress culturally, yet instead, they are blindfolded and robbed, setting back their society further.
Imperialism is defined as, “the policy of extending the rule or authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries”. I do not think that imperialism is a good prospect to have; it is usually disliked by the country being annexed, as they are forced to assimilate to our (British) culture and fit in to our society (even though we refuse to ever see them as equals). Why would we try so hard to force our ways of life upon another group of people, force them to live as we do, and then, not even recognize them as our own when they do assimilate? I believe that the British people need to be more accepting of other cultures, religions, races, and societies besides our own. I feel that, in our search for land, if we happen to come across a land that we want, but it’s already inhabited by people, then we should leave it alone, it does not belong to us. Take India for instance, this is a land which we have imperialized and controlled for many years now, I believe that a better way to go about attaining the vast raw materials in the country of India would have been to ask to trade with them. This solution would have shown a level of respect towards the Indian people, there is no respect in imperialism. Respect is a two-way street, if we show respect towards the Indians, then perhaps they will treat us with respect too. We cannot use the tactic of imperialism and expect respect in return. Imagine you are a young child living in India during the British imperialization, do you think that you will have a good first impression of the British? Do you think that your parents are going to tell you, “It’s okay, the British are helping us!”. If you answered “no” to those questions, then you are on board with how the Indians felt. As Dadabhai Naoroji expressed in his writing “The Benefits of British Rule, 1871”, the Indians wanted to govern themselves! While Naoroji expressed gratitude towards the British in speaking of the new roads they had built in India, the improved school systems that include both boys and girls, and the abolition of infanticide among other improvements, he still felt a desire for the British to leave the Indians alone. His tone was thankful for all the good that has been done for him, but feels as though the Indians are capable enough to do it themselves; it’s sort of a “thanks, but no thanks” situation. I think that every Imperial country should learn to mind their own business and end imperialism. Imperialism only leads to resentment on part of the subject towards the imperial power that controlled them, and this feeling leads to bad relations with the subject after it is taken out of Britain’s control. I can’t imagine that the Indians will like us after we lose control of their country. I feel that a policy of diplomacy, “the conduct by government officials of negotiations and other relations between nations”, would have been a better approach to success in India and the other imperialized nations. Notice that the definition of the word “diplomacy” talks of “relations between nations”, implying that both nations involved are working out their problems to form a solution that is agreed upon by both parties, as opposed to imperialism, which is more of a one-sided situation (where the dominant country takes over and controls the inferior nation). Overall, I feel that imperialism is a terrible way of working with other nations, and the key to success is to work together with these foreign nations to come up with agreements that both of the parties can deal with. It would be a win-win situation, our country would get the raw materials it needed (via trade), and the other would either get what they needed in return. When it comes to foreign relations, we must be careful not to be greedy, to accept other peoples, even if we might feel they are inferior to us. Inferior or not, we need them, and it works out better for everyone if we just admit that we need them and trade with them rather than hide behind the belief that they are inferior beings, and take their country over.
It is with the best interests of the peoples and whole entity of Britain that I write on the subject of imperialism today. While some may say that the imperialistic actions our great nation has undertaken have been undeniably in the light of the greater good of all man as well as nothing shy of a miracle, I champion a different perspective. Imperialism, although it may be a very necessary process for the progress of our people, and in all reality a driving force in our nation’s power, the manner in which Britain has gone about it is far from honestly justifiable. The scramble for Africa, which occurred from 1881 to 1914, incurred an onslaught of greed, violence, and at times, inhuman action. Cecil John Rhodes looked to grab as much as africa as he could, and did so by tirelessly working every man he was able to get under his control. He exploited the land, and the people, and only looks to make more profit from the pains of others. The so-called Opium Wars between our nation and China, shed bright light on the inhuman aspects of our imperialistic policies. Outlawed in our country for many years, due to the well-know detrimental health effects, opium is a product that we continue to trade with China for, solely to make our pockets fatter. Thousands of Chinese are dying each year due to our actions. We grow it in India with the sole purpose of exporting to China, and to the avail of China’s leader, Lin Xezu, we do so. He has stated that our actions are “barbaric”, and that our nation is exploiting millions of people for their own selfish profit. I say its high time we began listening to the voices outside of our own nation. While necessary and ultimately beneficial, our nation needs to rethink its methods and ideas concerning imperialism, before its too late.
There is no doubt in my mind that imperialism is necessary for the greater good of our country. If we, the British, do not expand our territory and influence, other powers will. So, for the sake of argument, imperialism is a necessary policy for any successful world power in this day and age. However, the true argument lies in the method we have used in the past and continue to use today. Some would argue that to the most benefit comes through the exploitation and capitalization of the resources of all subject territories.
Let us consider the disadvantages of such a method. There will always be a high risk of dissent amongst the people, of chaos and unrest, and of losing the territory to popular appeal. Some would say that through military occupation, these risks are negligible. This is not true. Firstly, military presence would only do more to anger the people of the region. And not even the entire army could subdue an angered native population, especially in India and our other territories with high population density. Another disadvantage is that the people simply might not comply. They would refuse to cooperate, to aid in battle against rival European colonists or to provide a reliable labour force.
What is a better method of imperialism? The answer to that question lies in China and India. When dealing with unified and advanced civilizations such as China, we should not even attempt to invade it by force (at least at first) and take the resources. This is costly, both in terms of the lives of British men and financially. Instead, we could open a trade route, guard said route with Her Majesty's Royal Navy to prevent other powers from competing and at least attempt to reap benefits in that way. With the case of China, this was partially successful except that there was no balance of trade. Our introduction of opium for trading was a wise choice which respected the sovereignty of China while ensuring we had the maximum benefit.
With civilizations such as India, a different approach is necessary. I believe we did not follow the best plan for India. Regardless of what we did in the past, moving forward we should: educate the people, respect their culture and tradition by allowing them to study in their native language, and provide them limited autonomy. We should also give the native people more rights to keep the public opinion better. It should be noted that people will always resent occupation of the variety that is practised in India but through a well orchestrated public opinion program we can show them the alternative is not much better.
66 comments:
The British policy of Imperialism at the close of the 19th century was unnecessary as well as unjust. It primarily began during the Scramble for Africa, which lasted from 1881 until 1914. During that time, many imperialist countries wanted to have more influence and power in world matters, and a way of doing that was acquiring more territory to control. Many European powers were involved in this Imperialist battle for territory, including Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Britain.
After the scramble many nations wanted more control elsewhere, the main target for Britain being India, which they had been controlling for many years because of the successful trade industry. India was not a well controlled country by its own people, so the British believed that they could easily take it over as a place to sell their goods as well as acquire natural resources they could not find in their own country. The British East India Company was extremely prevalent here, and it aided in Britain controlling India for 90 years. While in India, the British began to teach the people English, and introduced them to British beliefs so they would be Westernized and not the savages Europe believed them to be. The British were appalled by their practice of ritual suicide, as well as their polytheistic beliefs. To stop these practices, missionaries were sent to India to teach them Christianity as well as English. The British were pretentious and believed that the English language was far more intellectual than any language the Indian people spoke or any other language in the world. British foreign policy at this time oppressed the people, and would not let them have a place in government if they did not think like a European. Even if an Indian person was allowed a job in government, it would be of little importance and they would rarely be able to help their country.
Imperialism in India was rampant, and they politically as well as economically controlled India in all aspects, while Colonialism would be to assume control over the country and rule it. Colonialism is a practice and Imperialism as the idea behind the practice. The short-term effects of Imperialism in India included oppression as well as the people having little say in their government. The lasting effects of Imperialism in India were westernized roads, new ways of thinking, new culture, education system, and a new form of government. The British policy of Imperialism at the end of the 19th century was corrupt as well as greedy. They did not take control of the air to make it better functioning; they took it over for their own economic interests. The people were oppressed and forced to rebel, thought of as savages, and much of their culture was destroyed. For all of these reasons and more, Britain’s policy of Imperialism should not have lasted nearly as long as it did and Imperialism should no longer exist in the world today.
--Imperialism in 19th Century Britain has brought nothing but crippling power over and violent acts of cruelty to nations around the world. The most prominent act of British involvement in a nations diminish is 19th Century China concerning the Opium Wars. As stated in the Letters of Advice to Queen Victoria, Imperialism in Chinese Culture has been considered to be overbearing and unnecessary in Chinese society. Imperialism continued to diminish Chinese societal structure with the legalization of Opium and the trade of Opium into China. Britain parliament is well aware of the dangers of Opium use, and has taken legal action against the utilization of Opium in their own country. But, for the stark reason of greedy stricken profit, Britain has made Opium use legal in China, and made sure to infiltrate the trade system with mass amounts of Opium. It has been made obvious that Britain has no sense of moral towards others, and does not care about the welfare of the Chinese people. Opium is a highly addictive drug that has killed thousands of Chinese citizens and will continue on its reign until the British infiltration stops. Imperialism is threatening Chinas infrastructure and ability to stand upon its own two feet; the British Empire is crimpling this nation slowly but surely and does not intend on backing down. Initially Imperialism was highly successful for Britain, for the economic system was able to thrive. But the powers of Imperialism have transformed Britain into a mindless machine whose only concern is sheer profit. There is an obvious distinctness to be seen between Colonialism and Imperialism, for the people of the countries being “enslaved” wish their countries to thrive and the people of China obviously do not wish to be under the power of Britain any longer. In the letter, Chinese commissioner Lin Zexu described the British Empire as barbaric several times throughout his complaint to the Queen. It is quite apparent that the citizens and higher powers of Chinese governance are outwardly opposed to British ruling over their society, and wish to have power over their own lands. This begs the question to the British Empire of what gives Britain the right to control Chinese society.
--It is not only the Chinese citizens who feel this way about Imperialism; according to Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, Imperialism is a “monopoly.” Imperialism makes the goal of self ruling countries unobtainable, for Britain has far too much power for their own welfare. The fact that Imperialism is for the best for the British Empire and that it is the best method of keeping Britain’s role secure is completely corrupt. The British Empire is secure, but while all other countries around the world are being kept hostage by Britain’s grasp, soon there will be no other nations for Britain to trade with, or have any sort of international relation with. That is when Britain’s nation will crumble from the weight of too much power.
We, the British Islands, have for the last several years, been colonizing and expanding our nation. The empire in which the “Sun Never Sets” has expanded towards Africa, India, and the coasts of China. Our economy and trade is thriving here, but what is happening in these colonies? How are we affecting them?
Imperialism has suffocated these countries, destroyed their culture. China, a country we have not even colonized has suffered immensely due to our insatiable desires of wealth and land. In the “Letter of Advice to Queen Victoria”, which is assumed to have been disregarded by her, written by Lin Zexu describes plainly the situation concerning mainly around the Opium Wars. Opium, an addictive deadly drug, has for sometime been banned in our wonderful country because of its well known harmful effects. However, knowing this we have continued to grow it in our Indian colonies, only to sell it to China. This has resulted in detrimental effects in their society killing thousands of people including the emperor’s own son. Yes, we are getting huge profits from it, but where are our morals? Even Zexu was able to point out that Britain was using them for their own selfish desires. He questioned why we need the profit of opium even though it is injurious to humanity when China already provides rich goods that are used for our countries consumption but also trade with others, without them we would not have even this profit. Lin Zexu has termed us as “barbarians” and based on our actions it is truly a fitting term. This may be shocking but it is what we use to refer to them and according to their culture, they are in all respects being generous, because the merchants’ actions should qualify for execution. The British Empire should be creating productive relationships with other countries instead of hampering other’s growth, we can see these affects and yet we continue to clasp our power with a tighter grasp. It is clear that our actions are unwarranted, and that the majority of the Chinese are opposed to our influence on their society. And it is also clear, that we have no right, none at all to be there. If we were not barbarians we would withdraw right away, but continuing to expand seems like the only option for keeping our nation wealthy and secure. But according to Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, who wrote “Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism”, this is not true, he believes that if we do continue our power will become out downfall, our head will be too heavy for our neck.
In Zexu’s letter, he wrote, “Such persons who only care to profit themselves, and disregard their harm to others, are not tolerated by the laws of heaven and are unanimously hated by human beings.” Now remains the question are we good Christian humans, or devils injuring other for our pleasure? If the first, when will we stop our attacks?
Editor, British Times Herald:
It is with great concern for my beloved nation that I am writing you today. In the recently past months, it came to my attention that certain members of the general public disapprove of and repudiate the imperial aims of Great Britain. Not only is this knowledge disconcerting to a devoted patriot such as myself, but it is thoroughly disloyal to the crown and everything mother England stands for. Expanding our vast empire into foreign territories has only served to elevate England further on the world stage. The economic benefits, which some of the opposers deny, are what has truly made imperialism a worthwhile venture. The new markets and prodigious increase in production Great Britain has seen since it involvement in India alone constitute a solid case for the benefits of the system that no naysayer can negate. While on the subject of India, let me speak directly to Mr. Thomas Babington Macualay, a man who sympathizes with the case of a clearly inferior race and advocates reform of our current practices. According to Mr Babington, who published a journal about his experiences living in India, "To trade with civilised men is infinitely more profitable than to govern savages.". Mr. Babington, I am sorry but I wholeheartedly disagree with you. The flaws in your theories would be apparent to a five year old child, perhaps an Indian one at that. You yourself have admitted that these people that we have rightfully established control over are “savages”, incapable of being properly educated. If they are not civilised now, how will we ever be able to trade with them? You have explicitly stated that education of the Indian masses is an impossible undertaking, if this is so, then yet again I must ask, how will we ever be able to trade with them without controlling them.You have proposed an education plan which consists of creating a class of Indians comparable to our refined English society. If we examine the situation realistically, we will be able to see that the Indian people will never reach English standards. The current system in which the Indians are under our supreme control has resulted in massive benefits for England and the empire, why should we sacrifice our own well-being for the benefit of a subordinate people?
Furthermore, an Indian man has come out in support of British rule in India, highlighting the immense gains India has in fact experienced under British rule. Dudabhai Naoroji, pointed to the political improvements brought to India by Great Britain, such as freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Roads and irrigation systems would have also never have been possible in this primitive area without the direction of the British government. Although we are ultimately expanding into India for economic purposes, our presence has also served to work for the greater good of mankind.
In conclusion, the future of our nation depends upon the continued success of our imperialist aims. Failure to maintain our current standing and further expand will result in both public humiliation and unspeakable shame brought upon the crown. This is our true duty and calling. In order to preserve our rightful place in this world, we must assert our superiority over those who are inferior.
Sincerely,
Anna Frenzilli
When humans get a taste of power and control, they often become addicted. It’s human nature, yes, but does that mean we always have the right to satisfy this hunger? No. Britain’s display of imperialism in Africa was nothing more than greed and arrogance at its worst. It is indeed important for one’s country to establish relationships and set up colonies around the world for political and economic advantages, but to conquer a people for the sole reason of creating an empire and expanding dominance surpasses the acceptable limit of development.
Africa was a nation of tribal natives, coexisting with one another until Europeans began to take an interest in the large piece of land. With the explorations and reports of explorers such as Henry Stanley and David Livingstone, Africa became a new and exciting place to focus on. With the discovery of diamonds white men flocked there by the hundreds. For Britain, this was the chance for expansion, Queen Victoria was hungry.
Social Darwinism played a major role in the quest for Africa. The Africans were seen as the lesser forms of life and it was the “white man’s burden” to civilize and set them right, in the eyes of the British. Their longstanding ties to the land meant nothing and when the overconfident generals of the British barged in, they immediately began their domination. One of the main playing characters on this African scene was a fortune hunter named Cecil Rhodes. Talk about greed and haughtiness, this man was the epitome of both.
Violence was a key characteristic of this imperialist movement, unnecessarily harming the Africans who greeted British generals, such as Rhodes, as they arrived. Lobengula, the king of the Matabele, greeted the British new comers with open arms. Lobengula allowed the British to search for gold on his land and he even went as far as to punish any member of his tribe that threatened the white men. Ignoring this hospitality, the British only wanted more. Rhodes led troops into the Matabele land and slaughtered these natives with their maxim guns, which gave the Matabele no chance. Lobengula lay dead as Rhodes took his land and named it after himself; Rhodesia.
The leaders of British imperialism were so self-centered that they often disobeyed orders from the Queen. How could anyone support this movement when the men at the forefront are manipulative thieves who used aggression and uncalled for fighting in order to satisfy their thirst for power? They have a lust for power that put the empire on the bad side of many countries. They are barbarians who coined the first concentration camps in the Boer war, imprisoning innocent women and children. Its one thing to colonize in order to get ahead on the economic scale, but imperializing brings arrogance, greed, and barbaric behavior in order to dominate.
It is the opinion of this editor that Britannia should continue its expansionist policies in the Indian subcontinent. It has been determined that, first and foremost, we come to this land not with the iron sword of conquest but with cross of mercy. We come not with the intent to conquer; we have come ready to teach the peoples of this land. Many of them live in destitution and squalor, overwhelmingly illiterate, thinking only of how to survive day to day. Our empire has come, and we have taught them not only our language, but have even exposed them to the best of our literature. In a world where our empire reigns so prolifically, who can deny it is of value to learn the English tongue? Indeed, the sun never sets upon the British Empire; hence, if we and our tongue do dominate the world, the peoples of this land must learn the language in which they are encased. This is an ancient ideal, held firm from the times of the Romans, who forced their subjects to learn Latin, so that they might be involved in the affairs of that magnum imperium. We have also come as a light of virtue into the valley of the shadow of death. These barbarians joyously murdered their infants, and had their women throw themselves on the pyre in mourning of their deceased husbands. Such a disregard for human life cannot be supported by any civilized people. One argues, but it is part of their culture to do so. It was once, in the times of Rome, part of the culture to cast malfigured infants into the cold to die, yet Christian virtue stomped out that practice, and none will argue that such a change was for the worse. Britannia is now at the apex of its industrial strength; we have soared ahead the rest of Europe in manufacturing and textiles. It makes only sense, while we are at this high, to establish ourselves in India, where the population is expansive and the land is rich in cloth and resources. Bring our industrial power there, where resources are in abundance and an impoverished people stand ready to take up machines. The profit that would be rendered unto England would be immense. One argues, would they not be subject to worse treatment than they currently receive in their lives of poverty? I argue back, they would be subjected to no worse than what the British worker receives. We would bring unto that land industry, which, although it may have tedious growing pains, would in the end only benefit the nation. Also, it is important to note, in India, all our opium is grown. If we are to retain the powerful opium trade we hold in China, India must be thoroughly secured; elsewise, our debt to them shall be bound far longer than it would be otherwise. Therefore, fellow countrymen, I beg you to see the necessity of Indian conquest, for our nation and theirs.
At the close of this century, Britain’s policy of Imperialism has caused many problems around the world, from Africa to China. Its horrible impacts are quite apparent in Britain’s relations with China regarding the Opium Trade. For the past few years, opium has started to become an increasingly popular trading item for the British East India Trading Company because of its abundance and addictive affects. The Chinese Emperor decided to put an end to the Opium trade when he realized that it had been the cause of his son’s death. The Chinese saw that it was becoming a social problem for those who were involved with the drug, and as a result, decided that those caught would face the death penalty. Lin Zexu, the Commissioner of Canton, has written “A Letter of Advice to Queen Victoria” which asks for her agreement to end this trade. Tensions have started to form between the two nations. Zexu says the Chinese do not mind our imperialistic policies at all, bringing forth the fact that China supplies Britain with trades such as ginger, cinnamon, silk, tea, satin, and chinaware, while in turn China can get along without the goods of Britain. Yes, there are British who believe that our nation must establish power over the world to maintain our status, but perhaps too much power may threaten to be our downfall. If China supplies us with so much, why not listen and stop this one trade which is hurting our ties with an important trading country? However, Britain is too greedy and only worried about making profit while Zexu is simply concerned with the well being of his country in terms of the harmful health and social problems it poses. The British are even aware of this, and yet, want to continue to ignore what has strained the relations between the two countries. Zexu states, ““How can you bear to go further, selling products injurious to others in order to fulfill your insatiable desire?”. Perhaps that is why this commissioner labels us as “barbarians”. Regardless, the letter demonstrates an empathetic attitude when Zexu states, “Naturally, you would not wish to give unto others what you yourself do not want.” It seems selfish of our nation to ignore this warning, for the Chinese are even willing to compromise the time period so that Britain may put an end to this trade. Why would a nation want to jeopardize its relationship with another nation that is fairly beneficial to them for the sake of one drug? Perhaps our foreign policy of Imperialism is responsible for making our has country more greedy for money and power, and this need for more will eventually be more of a hindrance than anything, a view taken by Vladimir Ilyich Lenin who wrote “Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism”. We should not confuse imperialism with colonialism for we need to remember that these are different nations with different cultures who are not being ruled by our government.
British Times Herald
What is the definition of a world power in the eyes of 19th century Europe? A country that has the ability to expand itself unto all known reaches of the world, east and west, north and south. Claiming soil that has been inhabited long before The Empire even existed. Conquering grand civilizations and subjugating it's people to work, to slave, for The Empire as a minute cog in the grand scheme of machinery and industry. To become carbon copies of British subjects in all but pallor and treatment, to have their cultures wiped from them because they are savage and primitive. We, a tiny little island in the Atlantic, have half the world under our tea-stained thumb. Why shouldn't we take advantage of these people? They are lesser than us when looked at by the eyes of civilized British society and weighted against the standard British values. They have inferior cultures and useless traditions. Conflicting opinions on imperialism have arisen withing The Empire, both feverish support and powerful doubt. Questions like: Is this the correct way to become a world power? have arisen. Or better yet would England still hold it's position as a world power if we did not try to take control of these countries?” The answer to the former is yes.
This is a time of mass invention, advancements in agriculture, health, and manufacturing and England is the epicenter of this movement. We are so far ahead of our own continent there is absolutely no need to exploit other countries, like India, except for greed. What is the difference between colonization and imperialism? The difference is where in colonization we put our own people on our own claimed land in imperialism we subdue the proud native population and destroy their cultures, a much worse fate. Even America who we colonized with our own British subjects fought to gain independence from British rule, this situation is much worse where an entire people are being forced to obey a foreign power where that power destroys their culture, tradition, and pride. For example in the Queen Victoria videos, Cecil Rhodes tricked Lobengula, King of Ndebele, into signing over his own land when Lobengula understood their treaty to be allowing Rhodes to dig ten holes for diamonds on his land. Not only had we used our literacy against this natural race of people but we stole the land of a whole established nation, like a carpet right from under their feet. China, a country that we did not have control over, was weakened severely by the illegal opium trade, and when a civilized Chinese diplomat, Lin Zexu sent us a letter blatantly telling us of our selfish and greedy actions we ignored it! Britain, the country we as Brits so lovingly call it the mother country has a death grip on all of the colonies or “children”. This is morally unhealthy for The Empire with our unhampered ethnocentrism, unhealthy for the colonies that we exploit, and unhealthy for countries like China who suffer at the hands of our pure greed.
Through all of this, one must know and remember that it is out of sheer love for my country and its empire that I write as such. So will we, Britons, as a people continue to let this unspeakable greed prosper at the suffering of our reputation as the Mother country? Will babying and exploiting these countries help us at all in the long run? The answers to all of these questions is and should be: no.
If history shows us anything, it is that our sweet island nation is greatest. Britain lead the world into the modern age with its industrial revolution and subsequently took its title as the mightiest of all countries in industry, trade, and arms. It is subsequently our duty to mankind to allow others to enjoy the knowledge and prosperity of the British empire. Imperialism is not only essential to ensuring this prosperity grows but also essential to spreading it.
Imperialism is not a flattering term. As it implies Britain does almost take over its holdings and sometimes with force. However, one must remember that it is only for the good of our nation and man. A perfect example of the benefits of imperialism are the colonies in Africa. Africa is a land rich in resources that far surpass any other treasure in value. Britain is benefited by the acquisition of such resources. Meanwhile the natives of Africa are likewise benefited by Britain occupancy. These men who previously lived primitive lives in a crude society are introduced to knowledge and technologies that bring them into this modern age. Britain’s occupancy allows the natives reach there full potential and live in a civilized nation.
Imperialism is first of all a benefit to Britain. Occupation of southern Africa allowed both for a source of resources and a trade market. Meanwhile Gordon’s martyrdom in the Sudan and imperialism in Egypt gave access to the Nile and the Suez Canal. These crucial holdings promoted trade both in Africa and in further east lands. Trade both gives our industries more markets and helps ideas spread. Imperialism also benefited Britain through the Africa’s natural resources. Africa had an abundant source of precious diamonds and gold waiting to be liberated from its earth. For example, Rhodes started one of the greatest mining companies of all time and spread British influence through most of southern Africa. This treasure helps Britain to become one of the most wealthy nations.
Meanwhile some people may propose that natives killed and lands taken over prove Imperialism’s downside. However, all fighting that took place was merely defense against threats to our great country’s dominance. The Bohrs and some natives objected to Britain’s noble cause and stood in the way of it. Naturally they had to be dealt with. In the long run most of the natives have benefited from imperialism. Their primitive tribes are introduced to society and given the means of becoming civilized people. If it was not for imperialism, there’s no telling how long it would take the African nations to catch up to Europe.
Overall Imperialism is necessary to the world. Without it our beautiful country could not be what it is and the rest of civilization would suffer.
Imperialism is a shortsighted, ultimately futile effort. In forcing our cultural “advantages” upon a people with their own unique history and traditions, you thrust a “knife of sugar” into them, as was once said by Dadabhai Naoroji in describing British control of India; while some of your actions may come to benefit them, the net result will be a harsh control of another people. Indefinitely will these people be turned against us, causing the unnecessary bloodshed of all involved. An understanding of our interactions with China in the last century greatly aids this argument; our trade with the nation involved our importation of massive quantities of foodstuffs, notably tea, as well as silk and other materials necessary for the production of textiles. In return, Britain has sent to China vast quantities of opium, harvested from the fields of our Indian domain. Opium is known to be highly addictive, and such prestigious figures as the Chinese emperor's son have succumbed to its effects. Why then, did the Chinese allow its importation? The short answer is that they did not. As evidenced in Lin Zexu's letter to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, the Chinese pleaded with Britain to forbid the bringing of opium to China, asking “How can you bear to go further, selling products injurious to others in order to fulfill your insatiable desire?” The Chinese authorities confiscated the drug and declared opium importation punishable by death, though not before declaring a period of leniency, in which offenders would not be so harshly reprimanded. All of these acts were completely under the authority of the Chinese government. How did we respond? By using our superior military to force open the doors of trade. The so-called Opium Wars were military campaigns to impose our trade interests upon another nation, to their detriment. This conflict, one of the multiple “wars of peace,” (eloquently named by Rudyard Kipling), is a bleak example of the results of imperialism. No one willingly enters into an agreement which is ultimately disadvantageous to them. Imperialism forces weaker nations to do just that. Mr. Kipling perfectly underlines the implicit perils of imperialism in “The White Man's Burden.” In accepting the rule of “silent, sullen peoples,” and attempting to change their ways, you will be met with no thanks. Rather, you appear as a monster, come from a far-off land to do nothing but eradicate their autonomy and promote your own splendor. The guise of altruism, of spreading superior British ideas to the world, is thus thrown off. Imperialism is ultimately enacted for the economic profit of one, at whatever cost will be assumed by the other. While you may “fill full the mouth of Famine,” what is done for people will always be dwarfed by what you could have done for them. In taking dominion over another group of people, you are ultimately responsible for its well-being. Problems, even ones existing before takeover, are assumed by the imperial powers. If conditions do not improve, then the native people “Shall weigh your gods and you.” Unrest will spread, and war will be necessary to maintain the subjugation. Or, as Kipling describes these lands of unrest, “Go mark them with your living, and mark them with your dead.” It appears that a good Christian should aspire to maintain his personal faith, while letting others be; if he chooses to intrude too far into the affairs of others, he risks bringing his brothers to arms and causing their destruction. This heinous act could never be forgiven at the gates of the Lord. Rather than assume a controlling role in the betterment of another, give him the tools to do so himself, and speak to him as your equal. Gracious words will cause him to heed your advice, and your reward will be his gratitude and partnership. In this way, the hazards of imperialism may be replaced with peace and understanding.
Editor, British Times Herald:
It has come to my attention that there has been growing public concern over our great country’s expansionist policies. There have been accusations that we are exploiting the native peoples of our expanding empire. I must dismiss these allegations as utterly absurd. Over the years it has been proven again and again that the British Empire is the greatest. The vast size of our empire is a reflection of our strength. They say the sun never sets upon the British Empire. As for the barbarous people of our territories, they need us. These uncivilized barbarians should rejoice that we have come to educate them in the ways of our superior culture. Our presence in the Indian subcontinent is a blessing for these natives. Their lesser culture dictates that if a woman’s husband dies, then she must throw herself upon his funeral pyre. You can see, of course, why such a despicable practice had to be stopped. Then there is the issue of education. They will be taught English, of course, as it is the language of our esteemed Empire. They will be educated in our literature. As Thomas Babington Macaulay remarked: “I have never found one among them who could deny that a single shelf of a good European library was worth the whole native literature of India and Arabia.” The natives will of course be very grateful that we enlightened them to the literary works of Western civilization. Who would dare to accuse us of exploitation? Is this something to be ashamed of, teaching an inferior race our culture? British Imperialism is beneficial to our own great country and to the people we assimilate into our empire. There are great economic benefits, there is no denying, but by expanding into Africa, China, and the Indian subcontinent we are showing how mighty we are. We prove to the world that Britain is the most powerful. We enlighten the natives with our literature, our language, our morals. I implore you, my fellow Englishman, to open your eyes and see just how advantageous expansionism is, both for our country and for the natives who reap the benefits of our being there. It is our duty to spread our higher culture to these places inhabited by uneducated, barbarous peoples. It would be detrimental to them were we to leave them as they were. My fellow Englishmen, can you not see how much they need us? Where would the natives be without our intervention?
It has recently come to my attention the great quandary concerning imperialism in our nation. There are those who would oppose the expansion of the British Empire, but for what purpose? They claim that it is harmful to the indigenous people which Her Majesty’s Empire has now so graciously taken under her protection. I assure you, dear readers, that Britain strives to look over the welfare of the world as a whole. As the Empire grows, so does the overall status of the earth, and those who have been accepted within its limits should be grateful. However, some unimaginably reject British influence, as is the current situation in China. It is this, the British presence in China, that should receive our attention and support.
It is of the utmost importance that the influence of the British Empire in China remains, despite its resentment by some rather unpatriotic British citizens. Stable relations with China have been long in the coming. After many years, Britain has established favorable trade relations with China. This supports Britain’s extremely important economy, which in turn supports various lands all over the world. It is for the benefit of you, me, and the rest of the British Empire that this favorable trade relation continues. However, the Chinese look upon our trade relations with disdain. Lin Zexu, the Chinese commissioner, had this to say about British trade in China: “The wealth of China is used to profit the barbarians. That is to say, the great profit made by barbarians is all taken from the rightful share of China.” Examining this remark, there are several points that should make any upstanding British citizen scowl. The most blatant is the use of the term “barbarian” in reference to the British. For those who may not know, “barbarian” in the English tongue is a derivation of the Latin word “barba,” meaning “beard.” This arouses the imagery of a mindless, uncivilized savage, which is how the Chinese view the British. Although the letter is translated from Chinese, its connotation is no less invoking or less deliberate. The second thing obvious in the remark is that the commissioner blames Britain for the fact that British trade has been so successful in China. It is easy to see how misguided the commissioner is, as he does not understand the fact that trade with the British Empire increases the welfare of all of its subjects. It is because of this that the Empire must remain in China. The Chinese do not understand the benefits of British activity; that more economic stimulation for Britain will result in advantages for the Chinese as well, such as more missionaries to bring them closer to God. Our position is clearly established the Rudyard Kipling’s poem “The White Man’s Burden.” Kipling draws attention to the fact that Britain is sending its best and brightest out into the world for the improvement of the world as a whole. It is their duty to aid those who cannot yet grasp the benefits of the British Empire.
The work is all the more difficult because it is unappreciated, both by those it helps and even by some in Britain. It is because of this that I implore you to see that imperialism benefits all those who comply. Because of the importance of educating, inspiring, and uniting the world, it is imperative that imperialism continue.
Sincerely,
Dalton Bassett
The Western World of Europe is a blood thirsty, power hungry mob or nations and has a never-ending , unsatiatable want for more fame, more control, more trades and most of all, more money. The 20th century Britain was no different, even if there were new ideals and new growth in thinking. Great Britain’s chief motivation in colonizing other lands, like India, is in order to make profits to benefit the mother country, not to help build and modernize those nations as they had put up the facade of doing.
The caucasian European’s in settling India was a show of them “Striving for domination, not for freedom. They only saw a huge market of profit in the land of India, at that time undeveloped, yet with so much potential. By the end of their stay in India, they had built it up to the ideal landmass where they could exploit the labor and the land in order to farm such things such as rice and produce coveted goods such as cashmere.Unlike colonialism, they had no regards as to whether they should help to develop the Indian nationso that it may fend for themselves, only saw it as a source to use to their advantage. They developed a complete monopoly on the Indian continent so that Indian peoples only bought their overpriced goods. In this effect, British occupation of India was highly detrimental. The repression of the Indian markets and economy caused them to stay as a weak nation that relied heavily on the Western nations in order to survive.
What the white men did do to help, they did it with a sour heart and with little regard to to
the feelings of the individual people’s of India. They termed what they did the “white man’s burden” and looked scoffed at that job. They disregarded Indian traditions such as Sati, where hindi women throw themselves into the funeral pyre of their husbands, which in some instances can be brutal and violent but to many others it is an important part of their culture. The voices of the india minority are often unheard and it is on the indian people’s shoulders where much of the costs(debts of up to 100,000,000) are heaved.
Even Citizens of Great Britain felt that Imperialism was detrimental on the home country; that it is a waste of their resources. Often, they have to dispatch their own men to fight battles in other countries and spend money that could be used for domestic causes.
As a result of Imperialism, Indian economy and nation remained backwards and underwater for so long. While there might have been some benefit, such as development of better transportation systems, most of it was lost in what Indian growth might have been able to expound to without the repressive policies of Great Britain.
I think that the era of Imperialism was a necessary evil. As is implied by the phrase "necessary evil", Imperialism was needed to push the world forward but in many cased provided for a lot more harm than all good things. The most heightened time of Imperialism was during the late 1800s and early 1900s, called the Scramble for Africa. The part of the world on which the "Sun Never Sets" had set its sights on something big, something that would give it even more influence on the world, Africa.
But Britain's intentions were anything but honorable.
This is where the evils of Imperialism are unveiled. Even though there were a few positives to come out of England's full-fledged goal to win Africa, the devastation is hard to ignore-- this was a case of "greed and economic exploitation".
Following David Livingston, General Charles Gordan (religion) and Cecil John Rhodes (empires) stormed Africa. Rhodes went down the exploited the diamond-rich areas. Without any care for the surrounding Africans, he worked them without any care day in and day out. Rhodes fought a religious battle to change the traditional ways of the Africans.
In my opinion, Herbert Spencer's ideas on Social Darwinism are the reason for this madness. It gave the British the feeling of entitlement. They saw blacks as inferior, in need of help, and easy to over-power. They saw the necessary part to be from the "white man's burden".
Gordan's religious battle in Sudan resulted in death on both sides, but mainly that of Africans. And once he was gone this was only encouraged by dear, old, Queen Victoria who granted a charter to Rhodes.
Rhodes path of exploitation resulted in the creation of the company with a monopoly on diamonds. While fueling the British economy it only drained that of Africa. Seeing as diamonds were so abundant in Africa this continued on without mercy. This is seen at the first use of the machine gun (60 shots/sec). They wanted Matabele land and showed no mercy in gaining it. Matabele were slaughtered and Rhodes didn't even bat an eyelash. Rhodesia was born, which further exploited the riches of Africa.
Though pushing Africa forward, the British truly only brutally hurt Africa. It stole away its traditions and forced British ways and standards upon them, killed without worry, and exploited the African land. Imperialism was necessary but at times it is hard to see past all the evil.
It has fallen to me at this time to produce an editorial regarding the subject of our great country Britain's occupation of the natives of India. One such editorial, it would be hoped, would provide the public with knowledge, the most noble tool, such that they might have the chance to see what such a task has been undertaken.
Though it be with a grain of humor, I would report that finding information contrasting the benefits and debits of the occupation of India was no simple task. Yet, this was due not to a lack of information, but a seeming non-existence of those who would say that any ill has befallen the natives of the Indian land from our occupation.
Imperial dominance is, at its base, practical. When one such a nation as great as ours is given the opportunity to expand our reach, and so gain a crucial edge over those such nations as would see our economic lead unhorsed, said nation has nigh a duty to its people to secure their future for the best of their interests. In the occupation of India, we stand only to reap profits.
As such, the only consideration we need make is whether it is such a burden to the native peoples, that Imperialism would be too morally distasteful to successfully pursue. Here there is once again no question, as by now occupation has been naught but a BENEFIT to the native peoples of India.
It has been said that there is far more to gain in trading with a civilized people than in governing savages. It could have been said that, at the time of initial occupation, the Indians were no more than that. While the undertaking is enormous, as the quality of Eastern literature trails so far behind that of Britain, we have made immense gains in the way of educating the Indian people in our tongue. In time, gains may be so enormous as to establish an Indian society as befitting interaction with our countrymen.
Preceding our intercession, the Indian peoples were not so much a country, as a scattering of warring tribes and gatherings. Under our skilled and trained administrative agents, a respectable government adhering to English principles has been drawn up, so as to better the natives. It is here I would like to address opponents of Imperialism, as a chief argument I encountered was a complaint that the Indian peoples receive a disproportionately small representation in their own government. As they had no real government beforehand, it can be hardly fair now to disdain those who would hold office until education has sufficiently progressed to produce leaders whose abilities would suffice to ensure greater wellness for their people.
Other worries surrounding occupation are that of cultural suppression. In this regard, I can report with great positivity that the British government has taken great care and pride in the preservation of local culture.
So we as British countrymen may continue to rejoice. There can be no telling the benefits that may come from the diffusion of our empire throughout the world.
Imperialism is evil. Why? Imperialism is a policy in which control is extended by an empire over foreign countries for economic, territorial, and political purposes. This is wrong. It is not fair to take control of a land that has people who have their own land, own unique history, and own culture. What if someone were to enforce imperialism on us? How would we feel when our land is being taken away? How would we feel when we are told to change our religion? How would we feel if our culture is being manipulated? I believe that we would not be happy but mad. This is exactly how people feel under British control.
A good example of this would be India. Dadabhai Naoroji called the British control of India, a “knife of sugar.” There were many advantages to India because of our rule, but the disadvantages outweighed the advantages. He agreed that we were bringing a lot of positive changes to India but he said that we need to listen to them. We need to listen to what their concerns are. We need to give them a part in government, so they can have their own representatives representing their views and opinions. They are frustrated because their voices are not heard. Thomas Babington Macaulay said that the “admission of high natives to office must be effected by slow degrees.” Indians are frustrated. They believe that we don’t represent them well and we don’t. We are just after our own economic pursuits. At the same time, we plan on educating them the Western way. They might not like that. They have their own mother-language and do not know English. The government officials in India have their own way of educating their people. We should not interfere. We can give them advice but we should not impose anything on them. Some of the Indian rituals outraged the British, like the burning of a widow after her husband died, called sati. They banned it but most of the Indians did not like it. They opposed it. Although we may think it’s wrong but it is their culture. As Dadabhai Naoroji said, “When you will know our real wishes, I have not the least doubt that you would do justice.” Now the question is: Do we know their “real wishes”? Yes, we do but we won’t fulfill them because we know that they are not in the best interest of the British government.
The British rule in India is unjust. We are taking away the rights of people who are pleading us to leave. If we don’t leave soon enough, realize that the people in India are going to rise up. This can lead to a civil war. The British Empire will then have to send in the military to oppress the riots or revolts but that is not the solution. The best solution is to handover the government to Indian officials and leave when they are ready to lead themselves.
Hey! Yeah you! By reading this editorial today, I hope that I can sway you to support our great British nation and continually maintain imperialism. Without imperialism, our small island (when compared to other large, powerful nations such as France and Russia) would be soon cut off and at they mercy of these other brutes. Imperialism shapes the fashion you wear, the food you eat, and the news that you hear. Without it, we would no longer be Britain!
In Africa especially, I wholly support the advancement of imperialism. Already, these "savages" that live in these countries are beginning to be exposed to education, politics, and better policies. Without our influence, these countries would slip back into civil war and squander all of the precious resources and culture that would be wasted.
Before imperialism, Britain was merely a great country. Even with the rise of industrialism, our country was in danger of being overtaken by other European workhorses. Even today, the world is a competitive and dangerous place, with many countries eager to take our place as the empire on which the "Sun Never Sets."
Imperialism will help to spread all of the knowledge and wonders that our island nation is famous for. We do not normally force our nations that we occupy to embrace our culture, but many of our "conquered" nations readily would die for the Crown. We help these nations advance into the 19th century and become civilized.
In South Africa, our presence there is beneficial for everyone. We are able to utilize the resources and trade routes that are in this nation, which will further advance our British nation. The natives are already adapting well to our presence, and normally welcome us into their homes with open arms. The other nations of Africa benefit also, as the death of Gordon in the Sudan will only double our efforts in that nation. The advancement of the Sudan is also crucial, and is a great example of the double benefit that is imperialism. Trade between Britain and other eastern nations is greatly improved, which can help to spread ideas and culture. The people of the Sudan are already benefiting due to this exposure to our culture.
For every negative aspect of imperialism brought up by critics, one of its many benefits greatly outweighs this negative. Some say that imperialism spurs violence and that the taking of native's lands is not right. Though they can point to the situation with the Bohrs and their refusal to cooperate with our nation was due to their stubbornness. When all talks of peace were exhausted, we were forced to show these primitive people that they were incorrect. Another shining example of the benefits of imperialism is Rhodes, which has contributed many of its riches to the finances of our country.
All of these facts are undermined by one important note; imperialism has allowed our country to become the most powerful nation ever witnessed in Europe. Who wants to end that?
Imperialism is an ever present society during this day and age, and the public opinion continues to shift on whether imperialism is a good thing to continue. Imperialism has graced England with ¼ of the territory in the world and made her the richest power on the globe, it is imperialism that has allowed us to modernize and culture many of the barbarians that populate the god forsaken reaches of the world, and it is imperialism that allows England to continue to spread the greatness of western society.
By expanding so greatly, England has a direct supply of diamonds, gold, spices, rubber, metals, and cloths, which make England the richest nation on the globe. None of this would even be feasible without the aggressive imperial strategy taken by the crown. The powerful nations of Europe would not respect England nearly to the same degree, if not for the expansion into Africa and Asia. Further more we have reformed the cultures of all the barbarians in the territories we have occupied. A perfect example is the ritual suicide practices that we have abolished in India. By imperialistic methods we have made the world a more civil place. In Africa we have pushed back the tribes in several areas and brought civility to a very hostile continent, and saved the people of every society we have conquered. The world has been improved technologically and culturally in the tradition of the west, and this would not have happened without England taking the front-line expanding. Imperialism has allowed England to improve the world in widespread and significant ways, and without it England would not be what it is today.
So before people try to put an end to imperialism, think about the good that England has done for the world and the barbarians that England has helped into civilization. Imperialism is a practice that the people of England should support, and defend so that England may continue to do good in the world and continue to be the worlds greatest superpower.
We as the great nation of Britain have a duty, and owe it to mankind to spread our wealth of knowledge to the world. The simplest way that this is accomplished is through Imperialism. Imperialism helps our beautiful nation grow, and helps to speed up the growth of the lesser nations around us. We achieve this growth through trade of the national resources within each of the countries.
Imperialism has many benefits for both parties involved. For Britain, not only do we gain infinite amounts of natural and other resources we also get the pleasure of educating other, lesser countries to help them become more like the ultimate nation, Britain. Our occupation in African is among one of the largest benefits for our nation. Africa is a vast land, full of resources such as precious stones and metals. This greatly benefits our nation because it gives to us a large commodity, prized among the people of the world. So because of this it gives us opportunity to gain other resources necessary to our survival as a nation as a whole. Furthermore with our occupation of Africa we gain access to major waterways such as the Suez Canal, and the Great Nile River, which this gives our nation even more access to trade with the control of these waterways.
Many industries have been opening up because of our occupations of many countries, for example Rhodes opened up a very impressive mining company, uprooting precious stones and metals. All of this has really sparked the economy opening up opportunities for people to start industries like this.
Yes, people have said that it is disgusting what the Great British Empire has done to this indigenous and you may argue this, but in the end the pros will greatly out way the cons. It may hurt some of these civilizations at first, because a majority of the time there is a great deal of bloodshed, because the native people do not realize the honor and dignity that comes with being a part of this wonderful empire, and instead of at first embracing it they shut it down. But once they realize all the benefits they will gain things easy up and they go smoothly.
Imperialism is overall just greatly beneficial, whether it be the conquering nation or the nation being conquered they both have so much to gain from it all. These newly conquered nations also gain the pride and respect that comes along with being apart of the Great British Empire.
In today’s ever-changing world, decisions made by the world’s powers affect the rest of the global community. And as Britain is, and God willing, shall remain, the lead world power, we bear, most undeniably, the fate and weight of world matters. It is our divinely granted right – nay, our divinely mandated duty – to consider what we must do to support both our blessed country and her dependants. It is manifest that we, a country so rich in history, culture, and leadership have learned and are obliged to share the path to success and happiness. It is evident that there are those among us that would have us believe it would be right to abandon the fledgling nations that we have established ourselves in. But I ask you, why? Must we not, a country ourselves, support ourselves that our citizens may continue to thrive? Must we not, a nation of God-fearing Christians, pass on the wisdom of our Lord to those who have not heard its glory? Must we not, a global-minded and fair community, allow those less fortunate than us a place upon the new world stage? To wit: the subcontinent of India, in which we have established our benevolent presence, has recently been thrust into this spotlight of controversy. We are accused of suppressing native culture. If this is in reference to our abolition of suttee and infanticide, murderous practices against women and children, then we stand guilty, and I, as well should any human being regardless of nationality, would have it no other way! We have been accused of corrupting the native thought. If this refers to our system of education to the ignorant, our spreading of the Good Word, our resurrection of native literature and simultaneous introduction of ours, then I say, resoundingly, yes! We are entirely culpable for such “misdeeds.” Examine, if you would, what we have done for this nation. In addition to the above benefits, we have given opportunities of government; enlightenment of culture; peace, order and prosperity; many political freedoms, such as that of speech; successful trade items to grow, harvest, and import; generous loans and materials to unite the country under a system of railways and irrigation; and many more such boons. What more could a nation want? We could, like many other imperial powers, crush and subdue them for naught but our own gain. Instead, we offer them protection from this very fate, and supply them with opportunities to rise above their given lot. It is not only as a Briton, but as a Christian and a human that I support, whole-heartedly, the imperialist policies of our nation.
God Save the Queen!
British imperialism a staple of economy as well as a beneficial program made to modernize the savages of the modern world. The barbarians of the world are volatile breeds not only cumbersome to British policies but to themselves. How could any civilized civilization stand by when such atrocities as suttee revenge a society? Would you have our empire stand by and observe such provincial practices one just as grotesque as the next? The answer to these questions by a moral civilized Englishman is no. We must stand up and as our forefathers before us decide our role in this modern era will we be those who observe others suffering and belittle them or those that save them.
India therefore must not regain its independence or its people will relapse into their old barbaric ways rejecting modern technology and new social practices. The benefits of this rule are numerous as described by Dadabhai Naoroji in his “The benefits of British Rule, 1876” document. Naoroij first examines the benefits to Indian humanity such as abolition of infanticide and suttee. No doubt these practices that had gone on for years would have continued if we had not stepped in. Furthermore we have given them the gift of western literature which as in Naoroij Case of civilization paragraph was excepted by Indians as many times more beneficial to learning then that of the Indian literature. Naoroij also gives what can be considered the popular opinion for government reform “peace and order.” Undoubtedly our reformed government system has proved far more effective then that of the previous Indian government which was in constant turmoil with smaller factions vying for power. All these improvements were needed to stabilize and improve a previously barbaric land. By leaving these peoples soon enough they will be at each others throats again bloodying the landscape we helped to clean. Who can suffer this blood on his hands? Who could suggest abandoning this province to the ruthless and crude? We must continue domesticating these beasts until the point they walk, speak, eat, and govern as we do.
Another use of imperialism is to keep our economic and militaristic opponents at bay. Needless to say the other European powers maneuver to claim positions around the world to gain the advantage. We can not afford to stand back well other nations move to claim territories and leave us to a solitary position incapable of reaching out to the rest of the world. These colonies give us the raw resources necessary to continue domination of the other European powers in industrial output. India’s location and spices make it a colony necessary to the power of the British empire. Without our imperialism we would lose this to one of the many other nations of hounds that will circle it and devour it. This gives us a moral and economic purpose to keep and secure India. The balance of power as of now is at a stalemate. Dare we allow another nation to increase its power to the state of the Napoleonic empire? The answer to this is the continued domination of provinces in an imperialistic manner in order to secure the peace of our nation and others.
In conclusion it is are god given mission to save these barbaric peoples and create peace and economic welfare for our great empire. In the end our continued imperialistic values will make the world a better place.
The British policy of Imperialism laid down a framework of success within every country it colonized. We as a great nation, work hard and thus prove to be one of the greatest powers this world has ever seen. The expansion of our great empire has brought upon numerous economic benefits. It has opened up doors to new markets and introduced unfamiliar lands. Places that bring in many necessities and materials that greatly increase our production. We have become associated with Africa, a land scene as inferior to our standards. A step in the territory and a forceful assimilation gave rise to a greater nation. Africa is a land of many riches, filled with resources. Our efforts to stamp out the slave trade within this country were successful. Our navy stopped Zanzibar from trading with anyone. The embargo was effective and rewarding for the British, we had thus won a moral victory in Africa. The tip of Africa appeared to profitable as well. The Suez Canal and South Africa heightened our interest and appear to be two financially beneficial opportunities. Our policies here were dictated by the desire to control India. This gain made India more accessible. This canal would eliminate tedious miles of travel that were taken to reach India. A trip that lasted 3 months would only take a mere 3 weeks. Soon the British traders in India gained a significant amount of influence. Our time spent in Africa helps our country thrive. It paves roads to other opportunities throughout the world. We expect to see a gradual increase in the size of territories under our control. This movement is meant for our best interest as well as the bettering of the world itself. An assertion of superiority upon the inferior. We also see an increasing number of factories, railroads, schools, hospitals as well as roads being built. Improving our infrastructure as well as the infrastructure of the new colonies. Mining companies have worked to uproot precious metals, jewels and stones. Success in such areas give rise to the start of many industries. An encouraging sign to many civilians. Trade flourished with the new connections, which is directing beneficial to our nations economy. It brings more variety and diversity into our production. Remember the importance of nationalism, and the pride it brings to our nation. As a citizen we want the absolute best and should encourage the increase of power. A powerful empire gives rise to so many things, including protection. All of this serves as a solid purpose to secure the lands we've acquired. An opposition held to imperialism can be outweighed with the pros of this policy. It is not viewed as a destruction to ones culture or an unfair takeover to ones land. It is a move made to benefit us as well as the others it affects. Conquering brings in many benefits and helps expand our great empire. It brings strength to our nation.
The acts of the British Empire during the 19th century have severely crippled foreign nations through acts of violence, through the use of slavery and with some most unsavory policies. Brittan the empire in which is one of the most influential nations in this world today chooses to be a voice of brutality and outright unsavory business practices.
In China the nation has become infested with British opium so much so that the Emperor has asked the Queen herself to put a stop to this abuse and has even threatened (emptily) that he will go to war with the British and remove us from their lands. They have gone so far as to call us barbarians for our trade practices. And in a letter from the Chinese it was said that our sales of opium to the Chinese has, “spread the poison to all provinces” and that these people (being us), “only care to profit themselves, and disregard their harm to others.” The letter goes on to say this is intolerable.
China is not the only nation with harsh laws holding them back, in places like South Africa we actively work to take away rights and alienate the native people. People such as Rhodes who fight for segregation a pushing our country back into the dark ages and effecting the countries that they inhabit in a bad way; they have enslaved the natives and forced them into hard labor as for other settlers they have forced them into death camps and allies on the continent have been stabbed in the back in the name of greed.
I for one agree this is an inhumane practice which is profiting by hurting the people of another land. With our Great Empire should work for the better of the people under our control not for the benefit of just us. With a larger more stable economy in all of our countries we could create a better market in which the wealth is in the hands of more than just a select few, this would create a more stable standard of life for all of us and make the British Empire even greater.
The controversy over Britain’s imperialistic policies is a rising dispute among the people. I am writing this editorial for you, the public, to see and understand that the imperialistic policies have significantly helped to strengthen our nation. Our expansion into India, as well as other areas, has allowed Her Majesty the Queen to be in charge of just about ¼ of the land and create new economic benefits for our country. Not only has Britain obtained new economic benefits, but we also have had the opportunity to help the people of the land. We have brought the people out of their barbaric ways and educated them in the Western Way.
We, as a large influential nation, have helped the people of India and greatly improved their living conditions and standards. As Rudyard Kipling manifested in The White Man’s Burden. It is our duty as a civilized nation to help civilized and improve the lives of the other nations, such as India. We have taken action to educate the people on India, both male and female, in the Western Way of things thus making them more civilized. We have done away with the inhuman practice of suttee and infanticide. An Indian man, Dadabhai Naoroji, wrote of the benefits of British rule in his country. He stated that since we have occupied the Indian subcontinent there has been “peace and order” we have done away with the corruption and we have granted freedom of speech and press. We have build roads for better transportation, and we have taken steps to better irrigation. We went to other nations with good intentions of helping the people and of bettering their land. Naoroji wrote, “To sum up the whole, the British rule has been: morally, a great blessing; politically, peace and order.” As you can see this man, an Indian himself, agrees that British rule has been beneficial to his country and his people.
Not only are our imperialistic policies favorable to the other nations, but to our nation as a whole as well. Our nation is one of the most influential of the age. We have developed a strong navy, enabling us to rule the seas, and we lead Europe in a scientific revolution that benefited lives and businesses across Europe. It is important for our nation to maintain a strong foothold as a dominating world power for the protection of our people. We have been able to, also, expand economically especially in India. All of these reasons are precisely why Britain should continue its imperialistic policies. It is our job as a dominating world power to educate and civilize others to improve their country. We have saved the barbarians by educating them in English, ending corruption, and building roads and railways. We have helped these people and helped protect our nation’s people by maintaining a strong grip on the competitive world in which we live. As you can see the our nation should maintain its imperialistic policies.
London, England- Readers of the British Times Herald, it has come to our attention that some of the general population has become opposed to the imperialistic policies of the great British Empire. Because of this the British Times Herald has decided to remind these unpatriotic cads of all the good that imperialism has brought not only to their motherland, but also to the peoples under our rule and protection. We, as a White nation with superior technology, have the obligation to help better the lives of foreign populations less fortunate than us, such as India. In addition we have brought order and civilized the barbarous ways of many pagan Indians. Finally, with a British presence in these lands we can spread the faith of Jesus Christ, thus saving their souls.
One of the most easily recognizable benefits of British rule is the effects of us holding up the White Man’s Burden. Most of these nations that are colonized have little to no education or knowledge of the ways of modern science or medicine. The lack of medicinal development leads to higher death rates for the people. The presence of the English has increased to life expectancy of these peoples as we teach them proper medicinal practices. In addition we have brought the convenience and efficiency of our technology to these lesser nations. Our rail system has now united areas of India. Hundreds of thousands of Indians use these rails for transport without which they would be walking several miles to their destination.
In addition to this we have brought order and civility to India. One nightmarish practice of the Indian people was that when a man died his wife (or wives as some of these polygamists had) were burned alive upon his funeral pyre. This senseless killing of these innocent women is just one of the practices that the British Empire has halted. Infanticide was practiced in India as well. Female babies were killed because men have a higher status. In fact as of 1834 there were only 603 females in all of Bombay. The British have saved many lives by halting these ungodly practices.
Another reason imperialism has benefited the Indians is in bringing the Christian religion to this region. Many Indians practice a pagan religion that idolized monstrous crosses of humans and animals. The British influence in this region will undoubtedly start to convert the Indians to the true faith of Jesus Christ thereby saving their souls and hopefully help them to find heaven.
However let us not forget how imperialism has benefited loyal English subjects. Spices, fabrics, raw materials, artifacts, and textiles are pouring into the coffers of the British Empire. The mysteries of the far reaches of the world are explored and together we, the British, have built the greatest empire in the history of the world upon which the sun never sets!
The British expansion into the Indian continent only yields that which is beneficial to both enterprises. For the Indians we do them a great favor for educating them and inducing them into our culture. As it is a parent’s responsibility to make the right choices for their children and teach them what is proper, the same applies for the white man to all other races below him. As history has often repeated itself, the white man has always come on top. And from that result it is our burden and moral duty to advance these tribal societies as God has chosen for us. And in the instance of India we have educated those people generously in our own tongue. This has served to expand their literacy and to make governing more convenient. And through civilizing them with our customs we have helped save innocent Indian lives from their own savage-like practice of sati. Sati is the practice of a woman burning herself alive at the funeral of her husband. From banning sati in some of our British territories we are continually sophisticating these savages into higher beings. Though they will never reach the class of even the lowest Englishman we still devote our time and patience for their betterment. And the generosity of our country does not end there. For their society we have increased their productivity and profits for their exports. Through our governance we have taught them the importance of freedom of speech and equal justice between men. Through our presence we have been able to influence these once tribal people into a unified and civilized nation under our umbrella. And one may ask, what does Great Britain benefit from being so magnanimous. We extend our resources, create new markets, gain powerful trading ports, and prove to the world that Her Majesty’s Empire is the greatest and that the white man will always prevail.
Imperialism is a God given right of the British Empire. As the most successful of the European nations, we must take it upon ourselves to help others who cannot help themselves as we have been doing in India. By temporarily controlling Indian’s government, we have guided them in the correct path to success. Our current occupation of India has brought countless social freedoms and economic prosperity to the colony. Not only has India gained benefits, but Her Royal Highness’s Empire has as well. We can use the colony to improve and expand the British economy. Our nation is the dominant country of the world; imperialism has shown to our competitors that Britain is a force to be reckoned with and that British influence continues throughout the world. It is also our patriotic and soul duty to help others in need; the Empire can achieve this through imperialism.
Our nation can bring numerous benefits to India such as connecting India in the global economic network that has already been established by Britain. With continuing British help, India is now experiencing an economic boom. The Empire has colonies and trade routes around the world; these routes will be used to further develop a trade center in India and much of Asia. Alongside the British East India Trading Company, the Empire has created a vast network of trading opportunities in Asia with imperialism.
The native people in India still live with a mentality of when superstitions ruled logic and education is not a priority. Britain has brought to the nation of India an equal opportunity of education to the natives. As Dadabhai Naoroji wrote in The Benefits of British Rule, there was a rebirth of Indian literature with the aid of the West and education was provided to both women and men. The British Rule allowed for “social evils” such as suttee and infanticide to stop. Freedom of speech has also been brought to the Indian people that had not been experienced before.
Those who argue against Imperialism do not completely understand the benefits of it. Imperialism does have its costs, but the greater the sacrifices, the greater the rewards. British takeover of India has made the country better than it ever would have been. If Britain had not taken over India, then Germany or France or another nation would have taken the chance. It was inevitable for a land such as India to not be colonized within the century. Britain practices humane imperialism to all her colonies unless special occasions call for otherwise. Our glorious nation must continue with imperialism because it is what makes us dominant. The limitless resources are what supply our economy, people and army. Britain must protect the Empire in order to preserve the prestige of Her Royal Highness Queen Victoria. For God, country and Queen, Britain must continue implementing imperialism upon those who require help from a prosperous nation. God bless the Queen and Britain!
Over the past few centuries our Great Britain has been at the forefront of everything. Most important of these has been Great Britain’s dominance over this world as the great “mother country.” We have created an empire on which the sun will never set. We have stretched our gracious wings upon the lesser countries of this world. We have spread our prosperity to those countries that need them most; we have helped India become a prosperous country with rampant fields of a sorts of vegetation, including the prized poppy flower. Her Majesty’s Empire has spread its western cultures and education to civilize the barbarians of the east. Most noticeable is the spread of English literacy throughout Her Majesty’s Empire. Our English language has been so welcomed in India, that it has been made the official language of the ruling class there. We have to moral obligation to spread our knowledge to those less civilized in order to bring prosperity to the slums in the farthest corners of the globe. Our efforts at educating these masses have been accredited in Thomas Babington Macaulay’ articles on British interactions with Indians. Macaulay was opposed to these actions because he believed that it was not our task to educate these people, and he believed that other greater profits lied elsewhere. The public and I disagree strongly. We have been granted the gift of being born in the island of our Great Britain, and received the ability to be the most formalized of all people. We must provide these resources for the lesser races. I say we are making enormous fortunes in India. We have properly seduced the once great China with the enticing opiates produced on the fields of India.
The British have created a better society for India, one that might make something out of these inferior races. We have abolished many of their disgusting and barbaric practices. One of these of course is the abolishment of ritual suicide. We, the British, have started to civilize these people in order to make them subjects of our great empire. Her Majesty’s Empire has also taken great effort at creating much infrastructure in India. Our efforts have even been recognized by the low indigenous people themselves; the British Empire played a crucial role in creating roads and irrigation systems for this inferior civilization.
In conclusion, who can deny the moral obligations that has been posed for us? It is our duty to raise these people from the slums their mediocrity. We must also exploit the riches and lands that lie in India. We must feed those that subordinate, if we are to receive the proper profit from our subjects. We must analyze that to feed the civilizations of India is to claim our rightful place as the subjugator of the world. Her Majesties Empire will be the benefactor of multitudes of countries and in return they will provide land and riches for our own civilization to prosper. We must continue on our original agenda of spreading to every land, for the good of our nation.
As many Britons know, we are the strongest nation in the history of the world. We dominate the seas, we conquered the barbarians in the east, and we gained many riches in the process. One fifth on the world’s population can proudly call themselves subjects of the Queen and her great nation. The sun never sets on the immense British Empire, stretching from Australia to Canada, and anything done to jeopardize this great land should result in a punishment alike to that of treason. We have brought civilization and God to these people, who previously practiced barbarous rituals such as forcing a widow to burn herself on the pyre of her husband. Not only have we improved the lives of the barbarians, we have ourselves improved, gaining vast riches and knowledge. In order to maintain Britain’s position as the most powerful and moral nation, we need to continue on with the imperialism of the eastern world.
One of the poor savage lands that Britain has helped progress is Indian. As Indian native Dababhai Naoroji points out, British rule has greatly improved the lives of Indians. Naoroji highlights a few major areas where Britain has greatly improved Indian society, areas that include: humanity, civilization, politically, and materially. While in the land of India, Britons have eliminated numerous pests destroying the native crops, and eliminated the precedent of ritual murder and gave charity in time of need. We have also given them education, for both sexes. We have given them the freedom of speech and press, rights to property and life, things that seem so obvious to us now, but so important to a civilized society. We have also provided monetary means for which to build railways and irrigation, improving the output of Indian agriculture which improves the economy of Britain. We benefit from the trade between India and all other nations. India provides vital and valuable goods that greatly increase the improve that economy of Britain. This testimony proves the effectiveness of Britain’s imperialism, and the great impact if has had on the education and development of once barbaric states.
A poem by the well-known poet Rudyard Kipling, The White Man’s Burden, outlines the moral responsibilities of the British Empire. Although written about the American conquest of the Philippines, I believe Kipling wrote it to apply to the British Empire as well. The White Man’s Burden explains that it is our moral responsibility as the superior race, to control and improve the lives of the inferior races. “Half-devil and half-child,” these people are both evil and ignorant. It is our duty to go to those lands and save the savages that reside there. We may suffer in the process, and the people may not want us there, but we know, and the Lord knows, that what we are doing will save the souls of the savages. Kipling also points out he benefits that the peoples of the land will receive, from new roads and ports, to improved freedom. If it were not for the white man, the barbarians would suffer forever in hell and on earth.
Imperialism by the British Empire is not only good for Britain, but it also improves the lives of the natives. We should continue on with our policy of expanding our empire. When both sides are improving from imperialism, why should it stop?
Imperialism is defined as the policy of extending the rule or authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries. The process of imperialism involves the subjugation of other colonies through assimilation. The mere definition of imperialism should be an indication of whether imperialism should be imposed or not. Imperialism is not only morally unsound but also can severely harm a nation’s population, their government, economy, and delicate culture. One of the most prevalent imperialistic nations throughout history has been Britain. At the turn of the 19th century, Britain maintained a great wealth of nations through their implication of imperialism policies in places such as Africa, China, and India. British imperialism was oppressive and completely unfair in these places and was only done out of immense greed and hunger for power. The more territory and control the British could maintain, the more influence and power they would have in world matters. Thus, Britain’s motives were utterly selfish and in no way had the interest of the nations they were oppressing in mind.
One of the most detrimental instances of British imperialism by the end of the 19th century was in the nation of India. Britain’s imperialistic policies came to control India as if they were its supreme authority. India’s government, economy, and even social aspects were all controlled by Britain. For instance, there was little to no representation of India’s people in their own government. I find this to be absolutely ridiculous considering India is a massive nation and should be able to have at least some representation in their own government. The only way an Indian person would be allowed any form of representation would be if they were deemed to “think like a European”. This portrays the extreme arrogance in Britain’s attitude to the Indians and even if they did fit the British people’s “standards” they still would have very little importance in their nation’s politics. Another way Britain’s imperialism was terribly unfair and unethical in India was by restricting their education. Britain figured hat if they were to educate India, then they would become more intelligent and realize the horrors of imperialism. This in turn would cause an awakening sense of nationalism in India followed by a series of rebellions and upheavals against their British oppressors. So, in order to protect their position as imperialistic rulers, Britain made sure that India would not be able to flourish in the area of education and learning. Finally, the more imperialism Britain imposed on India, the more their culture seemed to melt away. For instance, because Britain, being their arrogant selves, thought that the English language was superior to all other languages, they decided to wipe out over 60 languages that had previously been spoken in India and replace them with their own language. Also, the British thought it would be a good idea to impose their religion on India as well by sending Christian missionaries to live amongst the Indian people. Soon, British culture was being imposed in almost every cultural aspect imaginable throughout India; from architecture all the way to apparel. India was struggling to maintain their identity. Britain even condemned and frowned upon several cultural traditions in the Indian society, such as the ritual suicide of wives when their husbands died. In my opinion, it is not Britain’s job to judge or condemn the practices of other cultures. The only reason Britain was interested in imperializing India was for their own selfish needs, such as gaining natural resources and having control of the British East India Company; allowing their trade industry to flourish. As you can see, British imperialism is done out of greedy, selfish motives that provide for the benefit of Britain, not India and only cause unjust oppression throughout the Indian nation.
The British Colonization was a successful attempt by the British to exterminate the cultures of the colonized people. This sad chain of events will haunt the country of Britain for years to come. In the process of achieving the largest empire in the world Great Britain has successfully destroyed the thousands of years of culture developed by these people. Why would they do something like this? Money and land. Britain has put aside its morals for riches. This is a horrible action and something the country will live with forever.
First let’s turn our attention to China. Many of you will surely wonder why we should focus on China. China is a microcosm for all of the pain we have caused the people of the world. We have introduced into China a powerful drug that is capable of addicting an entire country ultimately leading to its demise. This drug is opium. Britain is intentionally addicting an entire country for profit when they know that addiction will ultimately cause China to fail. Here we see Britain ignoring its morals and encouraging itself to cause pain to another country.
The next example of the terror caused by the British Empire is in India. Britain has taken advantage of India’s natural resources. In return for giving up their natural resources they have received little. True Britain has given Indians access to an education system but in the process has demanded that everyone learn English and that the schooling must be completed in English. The most important aspect of a culture because it is the only aspect that is used every waking moment is language. If Britain successfully converted the Indians to speaking only English then the very backbone of their culture would have been destroyed, forever. To conclude in return for some schools the Indians received a complete loss of their culture and the pillaging of their natural resources. That is not even close to being interpreted as fair.
The basis for Britain attempting to do these wholesale changes in India is the supposed duty to help the poor people of India who are too stupid and undeveloped to help themselves. It never occurred to the British that these societies have been around for as long if not longer than the British societies and are modern in their own right. The British believe that they have this great duty to help the lower class of citizens but whoever said that they were the upper class of society. As clearly is evident from China Britain does not look out for the good of all people and is in it for profit. The actions of the British are horrible and will continue to haunt the empire where “the sun never sets” forever.
Is it just for any one culture to claim supremacy and absolute control over another? This is the question that the devil of imperialism raises for us today. Who are we to invade upon the crafted cultures of others and say theirs are subservient? Culture is precious to every realm of this world, it is the diversity that makes the world interesting, and provides us with the opportunity to learn from others and improve upon ourselves. With this policy of imperialism we are selfishly destroying many cultures, notably China’s. We have greedily flooded China’s markets with the disastrous Opium which has killed many of the Chinese people and wreaked havoc among their society. Why have we done this? For profits. But do the profits outweigh the moral burden? Why if we know of the damage of the Opium do we continue to force it upon these people? We have outlawed Opium in Britain however we have overstepped our boundaries in deciding that it must be legal in China for our own benefits. We are exploiting these defenseless people who have fallen victim to this terribly addictive drug. Those who argue imperialism is a benefit to Britain in this ever- competitive world are disgusting and inhumane. Was imperialism a benefit to Britain when our men went to war over this Opium? What if we had not won and many of our men had died for such a dishonorable cause. In Chinese commissioner Lin Zexu’s Letter of Advice to Queen Victoria he wrote “Such persons who only care to profit themselves, and disregard their harm to others, are not tolerated by the laws of heaven and are unanimously hated by human beings.” Zexu is completely right in this statement, and any British man would say the same in the defense of his fellow citizens. We as proud citizens of Great Britain cannot have the responsibility upon us of another culture, and more importantly we cannot be held responsible for its destruction. Culture is not a commodity that can be sold on the market; which is something that is difficult for British parliament to comprehend under its decadent, invasive policy of imperialism. It is not to our discretion to decide how a culture should conduct itself, and it is definitely not to our discretion to murder what diversity God has placed on this earth. Who must be the one with the blood stained hands liable for the death of a culture- I would surely hope not Great Britain. As the 19th century draws to a close and we enter a new age, let us make the just decision in ridding ourselves of this tremendous burden called imperialism.
To the readers of the British Times Herald, it has come to my attention that the foreign policies being pursued by our Queen have come into question. It seems that the Crown’s pursuit of expansion into foreign lands is being questioned by certain members of society who say it is a mere policy of greed due to a thirst for power and nothing more. These men and women do not see the benefits that result from these policies. It is truly in the best interests of the British people and Empire to continue to expand. The economic benefits alone are enormous and, while detractors of the Crown’s policies may call it greed, I call it progress. No one can deny that what increase the wealth of this Empire is beneficial to all involved. In Africa alone, we have brought civilization to otherwise barbaric lands as well as access to the vast natural riches of the continent. This land is filled with precious stones, such as the diamond, and reserves of gold. Natural resources such as timber and land for farming are also now at our disposal. However, the most important part of our expansion into Africa comes from the access to the Suez Canal. This channel, as simple as our beloved River Thames, runs thought Egypt into the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean, saving British merchants, travelers and warships weeks of time in getting to the east in their travels to India and Britain. Without this necessary expansion, eastern markets and good would be incredibly difficult to access, causing prices to sky rocket. While people may disparage our pursuit of Imperialism, they do not complain when they reap its rewards.
One of the largest outcry’s against foreign influence is a result of the belief that we as a British people treat our non-European subjects cruelly and like the American’s once treated their slaves. I say that this is an outright lie; our subjects are treated as we would treat any islander. However, if a native or group thereof, was to rebel, that rebellion will be treated with the harshness it deserves. As a government, we try to embrace the foreign influences that the natives encourage at the same time that we exert the proper control over the people. As one Thomas Babington Macaulay said in his article about how to embrace India and truly make it a part of our empire, we try to make the lands as free as they can be. Mr. Macaulay speaks of a desire to educate Indians in an attempt to create a class that the Crown can depend on and that the normal people will respect. We do not have our armies enforcing laws in the nations we are involved with; we allow them to try to rule themselves.
Creating an Empire that the sun nerve sets on is critical to economic success, we need to open our eyes to the way we treat the natives and carry on.
Through imperialism, I hope you readers realize what a great service we are doing for our country and others. Without our great nation, other countries might have wives be burning themselves to show the devotion to their husband. If we did not step in many would still practice this as years go by. Imperialism may be referred to as “bad” but it most certainly is not for that we as a country have also flourished along with other nations. We must, through imperialism expand to have our country flourish and survive.
Imperialism as time progressed became an essential asset to our survival because in the earlier years of the British Empire, we were weak. As France became to gain more and more power and obtain more land than us, they become a threat. However in order to compete we made sure our presence was known, but not always as a threat, but like a helping hand where we give them a push into the 19th century and they help us out by devoting themselves to the Queen. Even wives during the Sati ritual were saved due to our presence because it was banned. Imperialism even helps India become well governed through the help of Great Britain. And all we ask in return is for India to trade with us, and many people argue that Imperialism is wrong to do and should be stopped. There are so many benefits to Imperialism that they outweigh the negative. It is our duty as Englishmen to help those lesser cultures through reforming some of their ideas into ours for the betterment of their society. Many of the natives do not understand that but will in due time.
Imperialism is the only thing beneficial that helps other countries and cultures flourish and many people still disagree with this idea even though it helps societies evolve into becoming a better person or culture.
The Imperialization of a country is defined as not only taking over the politics of that country, but the economy and the society as well. This sounds unfair. We know that this is wrong; a people should not have to be told what to do by foreign rulers who know nothing of their culture and only have selfish interests in mind. Britain does not seem to understand that imperialism is not just a one way street; people’s lives are being ruined and lost. Or perhaps government officials’ interests are too important to think about the consequences for the people of imperialized places, like India, China, and Africa.
In a letter from Lin Zexu to Queen Victoria, he enlightens us to the dangers of the Opium Trade in China. People are being exploited in a country that is not the “homeland”, or Britain. They are being used to profit Britain, at their own expense. People are dying. Does the government of our country care? No. Do the people of China deserve this disrespect? This unfairness? Why is it acceptable for Britain to exploit the people of China when opium is banned here for exactly these reasons? The answer is obvious: it is not right. Zexu points out that we know these dangers in Britain, which is why we have begun an Opium Trade in China, only considering our own people’s well being, or rather profit, and not others. “Suppose a man of another country comes to England to trade, he still has to obey the English laws; how much more should he obey in China the laws of the Celestial Dynasty?” states Zexu. Yes, why is it that we cannot respect the laws of other countries, much less our own laws? Why is it that we have to make them mold to our wants and not profit for themselves?
I ask these questions because of all of the unfairness that is occurring all over the world on Britain’s behalf. We are exploiting peoples of many races, but they are not our own. This has to end. Imperialism is wrong.
I have been given the unique opportunity of delving into the life and society of India as of England’s control over the region. As an editor of the British Times Herald, I intend to give the readers a circumspect view of how British rule has impacted India as a whole. Many feel that this imperialism on England’s part is pure greed for economic gains. While the conquest of India has provided England with a wealth of economic goods, the enrichment that England has provided India provides for a fair balance of give and take.
We are a nation that the sun never sets upon, and this includes our claims on India. We have brought educational growth to a people who had fallen behind civilization. Thomas Babington Macaulay, in 1835, explained how the Indian dialects are crude and lacking academic merit. Thankfully, our leaders have installed the English language as that of the intellectuals and prosperous members of Indian society. As explained by Macaulay, English is the most useful language across the globe, and we have greatly aided these people by introducing it. The educational benefits will arise from the British instilling western values of academics in the upper classes, who will then be able to establish a more effective system for the population to learn by.
I had the good fortune of securing an interview with Dadabhai Naorogi, who as an Indian, is well-informed about the positive effects of British imperialism in India. He went on about the improvements there have been for humanity in general - suttee, the act of wives burning themselves alive when their husbands die, and infanticide have been eliminated by us. These barbaric acts no longer plague the Indian people, and they are thankful for it.
Naorogi went on about how the political situation in India has improved dramatically. The people now enjoy freedom of speech and press, a stable government protected from despotic rulers, and protection from destruction by needless warfare. We are in the process of bringing their society to the same level of sophistication as Europe, which is a great feat considering the massive population of India.
Naorogi also raves about improvements to irrigation, transportation, irrigation, and exports, which can be attributed to the hard work and benevolence of the British.
Those who say the British are being selfish and greedy are clearly mistaken, and ignoring these wonderful contributions that we have made to the world, spreading technology, education, and overall civilization.
Aside for the benefits to India, Britain’s imperialism on the subcontinent has reaped great rewards for the British people. The world is becoming a frightening place, and the more control we can assert, the better we can protect ourselves. Control over India is a win-win situation for everyone involved; British imperialism has led to, and will continue to lead to success.
Sorry, my brother Karl was logged onto his email, this is Sarah Meakin.
British Times Herald:
London, England-- Over the past several years, we have quelled the hearts of the savages and civilized their societies through imperialism. But at what cost? Behind the glory of our great empire are dark secrets. Turn your eyes to the history of our African territories.
Recall General Charles George Gordon, or better known as Chinese Gordon. Following his triumph in China, he was called into Sudan to oversee British interests. However, upon the sight of the condition of the people he made an effort to liberate the people. Truly, Gordon was the embodiment of British ideals, purely Christian with a heart devoted to the empire. The empire was dealt a severe blow as we heard the news of his death. He died like a soldier, fighting to the end and trapped in Khartoum with a poorly armed army and the Mahdi's overwhelming forces with no hope of rescue. Sudan was in a civil war, what business did we have in their affairs? Was it worth losing our nation's most beloved hero? Is it worth the shed of English blood at the hands of those barbarians?
Recall now Cecil Rhodes. He was an Englishman, a business man, an imperialist. But first and foremost, he was a business man with such a lustful greed for power that he would be ruthless for the growth of his enterprise. This ruthlessness showed upon his election as the Prime Minister of South Africa. In office, he passed laws that made no political sense. But a closer look exhibits his underlying ambitions. He was using the government to support his business! Furthermore, this ruthlessness grew, as demonstrated in his conquest in what is now known as Rhodesia. Rhodes stormed in with mercenaries and maxim guns and mercilessly massacred the natives who were clearly at an arms disadvantage. Where is the decency? Savages as the natives were, they were still human. They deserved to die as humans, not slaughtered like livestock! Even more haunting, this attack paved the way for an unprovoked attack on the Boers. Despite growing anti Boer sentiment, these people are civilized and preceding attack showed no hostility. As a result of his actions, Rhodes has dragged all of Britain into war with the Boers. This conflict is shattering the morale of our people! We grieve as our newspapers read out the deaths of our loved ones, the same ones who marched down the streets of London with pride but now lie in a foreign grave.
We are a large empire. We are so vast that our land has become a breeding ground for violence and lustful greed. In the name of, Britain we must discontinue our pursuit of other territories! We must secure our holdings and ensure our power in the world! What will the future hold?
--Justin Go
Editor
Dear Editor
I find myself concerned about our country’s current imperialistic attitude towards the world. Recent events, particularly the Boer Wars, have alarmed me to the point where I cannot help but express my concerns in hopes that others learn the truth about imperialism. To begin with, I would like to dismiss any claims that my lack of support for imperialism shows that I lack love for my country. Rather, it is love for my country that motivates me to write this letter. The advocates of imperialism claim that imperialism is good England because it is economically favorable and because we Englishmen have a duty to improve the lives of the savages around the world. I shall briefly outline the flaws of this line of thinking.
First I shall address the claim that imperialism is of economic benefit to England. It is true that the practice has brought wealth, but a problem arises as England comes to dominate more land. The Boer War started with England’s desire to conquer gold rich land. The venture ended in chaos. Nearly a quarter of a million troops were deployed. This proved costly in terms of money and lives. I fear that as England expands, it will be drawn into more conflicts that will hurt it. Consider now the case of Cecil Rhodes. He spent his time and wealth attempting to connect Egypt and South Africa with a railroad. What purpose would such a railroad serve? England has no problem shipping goods to and from South Africa from the sea. Rhodes’s railroad held no economic benefit, but reflected his desire for power and prestige. It is this kind of blind pride and ego that comes with imperialism that could lead a nation into its downfall. We must be careful in ensuring that every action we take serves as an economic benefit. Instead of expanding, England should limit and reduce what it already has to solidify and stabilize its empire.
Furthermore, the belief that Englishman have a duty to improve the lives of savages seems to me a thinly disguised excuse to continue imperialism rather than a true argument. Our actions have been for our own benefit, and benefit that came to the natives was merely a side effect. Babington’s “On Empire and Education” is a perfect example of how little care we show. In his paper, Babington considers whether or not to educate the Indian people. If it is truly our duty to help the people, why then should we even consider withholding the boon of education? There are other such cases. Consider China, where we dump our supplies of opium, knowing the harm it will do to the people. Consider Sudan, where an army was deployed to suppress what many considered a popular uprising. If we truly wish to uphold our honor as Englishmen, then we should end such actions at once.
I hope that the contents of this letter have helped to show the negative aspects of imperialism.
Sincerely,
Ariq Rahman
As a superior nation, a state so successful within Europe, actions of imperialism seem justified when the effects of it are not. Extending control over a foreign land for the purpose of political advancement is strictly unacceptable. A sovereign state has its own right to form government and practice cultural beliefs without persecution from superior nations. When contemplating the act of imperialism, one must always empathize with whom they wish to control. I guarantee nobody would like someone destroying his or her ancestral beliefs, ancient culture, and enforcing a religion upon him. So ultimately what gives Britain the right when Britain would not accept the same fate? This is exactly why I take a negative stance when regarding imperialism.
For example, The East India Company interjected on sati, an Indian practice where the woman burns herself over the husband’s burial site. This act of sati shows true devotion from wife to husband, and symbolizes the hope of a better afterlife. However cruel and terrible this action seems, it is a belief held close to heat by many Indians. They have the right to show allegiance to their culture and their family. By banning acts of sati in certain areas of Britain, their culture is being destroyed and is failing to be preserved. We British are controlling and grooming foreigners to their cultural standards. This action of imperialism is unfortunate because the way of life of numerous women is being controlled.
Imperialism can have detrimental affects in the instance of Opium in China’s markets. This action has caused the death of many Chinese citizens. It is unfortunate that the British feel the need to have an input on the order of other nations. Britain is essentially destroying every sense of diversity and teamwork found in Europe and the rest of the world. We should focus on improving our own nation and becoming as centralized as possible without feeling the urge to control and help surrounding nations in a commanding manner. As a strong country, it is imperative that we set a good example to help improve our neighbors, rather than imposing our force upon them via the terrible habit, imperialism.
England’s current policy of imperialism is pure evil. Never before has a powerful nation exploited the natural resources of weaker nations on such a wide scale. The main purpose of British imperialism is the acquisition of wealth to compete against other European nations. A negative side-effect of this mentality is that the British saw the natives as an obstacle to their power, and ruthlessly expelled them from their land or enslaved them. The African continent is one of the most notable examples of the terrible impact of British imperialism. British influence in Africa began with Egypt due to the importance of the crucial Suez Canal. Although public opinion in Britain at the time was not completely in favor of imperialism, events such as the death of Charles Gordon changed the public opinion towards intervention and imperialism in Africa.
With the newfound public support, British ambitions for Africa grew. Cecil Rhodes was responsible for the creation of many British colonies in Africa. One of his most important goals was to build a railroad from Cape Town to Cairo. Rhodes became extremely wealthy by funding diamond mining operations in South Africa, and he used this wealth to fund his endeavors. The frenzy caused by the discovery of diamond could be seen by the virtually overnight rise of boomtowns near diamond mining sites. This lust for materialistic wealth did not bode well for the natives. When diamonds were discovered in Matabeleland, Rhodes had his eyes on the country. He manipulated King Lobengula into signing a document that gave Rhodes enormous power over Matabeleland. Rhodes also took the opportunity to destroy Lobengula’s power. When the British’s hired mercenaries fought with Logenbula’s army, the Maxim gun allowed the British to brutally defeat the Africans. In later years, under Rhodes’s suggestion, Africans in British colonies were disenfranchised. This shows that the motivation behind British imperialism in Africa was to use their African colonies natural resources and that the British did whatever it took to accomplish this. To the British, Africans were merely obstacles in their goal of becoming a more powerful nation. If the British continues these acts of brutality towards the African natives, there will have severe consequences in the future.
In conclusion, the British created African colonies for the sole purpose of exploiting their natural resources. The British crushed the natives who stood in the way of fulfilling this purpose. The terrible acts committed by the British in Africa will have serious repercussions. England must reverse its imperialistic policy because either way, England will not be able to hold on to what didn’t belong to them in the first place.
Let’s face it. At first glance imperialism looks like this awful horrifying concept. No one willingly wants to be taken over by a foreign rule and have a new culture, language and lifestyle forced on them. And that is just the beginning of what Great Britain is doing with their policy of imperialism. So yes, imperialism is pretty evil. However, it’s not all bad.
India is a great example of imperialism at its best and worst. As we see from the educated politician of India, Dadabhai Naoroji, British rule in India has actually really helped a great deal of their society, especially when it comes to the humanities. The practice of suttee (women burning themselves alive on their dead husband’s pyre) has unfortunately been a time-honored tradition in India, but with the entrance of Great Britain, that along with infanticide has thankfully been abolished. And this policy has made a very progressive move to help Hindu women by allowing them the widows to remarry. Poverty is also a dramatic challenge they face in India, and England has done its part to help the effects of this by providing charitable aid when famine strikes. Another positive aspect that India has excelled in due to British rule is security. It’s hard to believe that foreign rulers who are only looking to expand would care about peace and order in society, but they do. And they have instilled these practices in the Indian society. This along with more freedom, like speech and press, is greatly appreciated in contrast to the chaotic unjust lives the natives led before.
But behind those benefits, imperialism does have its major drawbacks, that being…it’s still imperialism. Great Britain has exhausted and deprived India of all its resources, and failed to let them reap any of the rewards. Taking over the land also implies taking over all the money involved with that land, even money that doesn’t exist. England’s greed has found and exhausted every available source of wealth in the country through unjust taxes. They force the natives to just pay more and more and more, but yet leave them no way to increase their income. This just keeps rallying up the total amount of debt accumulated in the country.
To the natives Great Britain has most simply overstayed their welcome. They are fortunate and grateful for all they have done socially, but they are trying to control too much, and in reality their policy of imperialism is burning bridges across the world.
Editor, British Times Herald:
The subject of imperialism in our fine empire has been a topic of frequent debate quite recently in lieu of our troops invading and “colonizing” underdeveloped countries such as India and Africa, and even attempting to colonize very civilized nations like China. Is expanding our empire really worth jeopardizing these indigenous people's happiness and well-being? Simply put, no it is not.
Clearly you have those who support the idea, who will say that imperialism is needed to make our nation greater than it already is. Someone who, like John Stuart Mill, will say that colonization is a “self-supporting system” and insist that this plan would be more efficient as the years pass by. The likes of him have compared this new idea of “colonizing” Africa to settling in areas such as South Australia, Victoria and New Zealand. This is not the case. One cannot predict the likelihood of success in a country based upon previous success with others. These are different kinds of people that will be dealt with and one never knows how they will react to such an attempt. He continues on in “On Colonies and Colonization” to explain how easy it would be for citizens of the mother country (Britain) to emigrate to Africa and decrease the overpopulation problem. However he says nothing about the fate of those already living there.
Edward Morel tells within “The Black Man's Burden” details of how these poor people will have to deal with the English taking over their homeland. We have brought over disease and ways of life that they find strange and unnecessary. True, most of them are uneducated and illiterate, but what purpose to we have taking their way of life away from them? They have lived there for centuries without bothering anyone else and I completely feel it is wrong to try to imprison them into our ways of life. I think that Morel says it perfectly when he claims the ways of imperialism “enslaves him in his own home”, speaking of the Africans. These people are virtually defenseless and it would be in England's best interest not to expand into Africa.
My good Indian people, you hear all this fuss over imperialism and the British Empire. You may be a bit confused and unsure what to believe. We all know the British and her policies, for the “sun never sets on the British Empire.” However, the British policy of imperialism IS unjust and unnecessary. The British government would like to keep us ignorant to keep us submissive. To that I say, No! We need knowledge to awaken our ambition so our fine country can be everything it possibly can be. The British exclude us from high office, therefore disenabling us from participating in decision making. Countless times we have been pledged the right to have a fair and reasonable share in higher office in our own country. Yet time after time, this right has been denied and we the natives of the country are left powerless in our homeland. The British word is to no longer be trusted! Neither are we treated not as British subjects, where representation is a birthright. However, most frustrating of all is how our feelings are completely disregarded and tossed aside. We are the ones that live in this country and we are the voices that should be heard.
We have no one to guide our rising generation because the British government has drained the wisdom and the practical administration. Our languages that have been spoken by us throughout history and are held very close to us, they are about to be ripped right out from under us. Our languages are beautiful, sentimental, and a way of our life. However, to the British our languages have neither scientific nor literally information. Leaving it useless, poor, rude, and untranslatable. The British want to place one common language among us, it is absurd. We have no need to learn the history of European countries and the stories of their world. We have our own language, our own history, and our own country that can not and should not be forgotten! The new education Britain has given to female and males of our country has led to the destruction of superstition and many moral and social evils. Our own noble literature has been modified and refined by the enlightenment of the West, that it is no longer ours.
Not only is Britain using India, they are putting a financial burden on us. They have imposed means of taxation on us, yet we receive no pay raise. We have a debt of 100,000,000 and of that British colonies contributed 3,000,000 to the debt, which is entirely unnecessary. But most of all, the constant and continuous impoverishment and exhaustion of the country has hindered India and we the people. Even with the very acute relief Britain has provided to India, great masses of poor have hardly any food or money a day, and to their name only a few rags. The British government had the power to prevent these famines and yet they chose not to. The people’s welfare is not valued by the British. Under British control and the imperialism policy, our great nation has crumbled. We need to stand up and take control of our country once more, for only we truly know what is best for our people and our country. Unlike some foreigners.
What would the world be without the British Empires imperialism? As an editor of this great newspaper the “British Times” I can’t lie to you and be the nice guy I simply have to state the facts as they are. The world without British Imperialism would be an unsettled frontier with uneducated barbarians running around aimlessly. When our country expands and settles in other countries what we bring is an established government, education, order, and properness. What are the other continents and countries without these you might ask, and to answer that, the continents or countries are almost nothing. These countries are not settled have no laws and have great poverty and terrible living conditions. When the British Empire expands it doesn’t make living conditions better for everyone but it does provide order and the necessities for people to leave poverty like educations. We also bring to the other areas better medical procedures which ultimately extend the life expectancy. When I first traveled to Africa before Britain had taken too much control over it I noticed the extreme poverty and the average life expectancy was very low. As the years went by and I was studying imperialism I noticed the improvements we were making to these new parts of our empire and the change was amazing. Now if you are still skeptical on the subject of imperialism than you must look at also how it helps our home country. By expanding to other areas we potentially grow the amount of coastline we control which ultimately allows for our country to grown in trading and military power. Imperialism is the best thing for our country because when expanding to other areas we get more natural resources a larger working force if needed, and we show the world that we are the most powerful nation. Financially expanding to other countries is initially expensive but the overall payout from goods and natural resources produced in these countries is extremely high and is the right decision. Imperialism is a very important thing to take part in as a country because it sends a message to other countries that you are a force not to be messed with. In the end Imperialism is the greatest thing for ourselves and the people in the lands we expand to because we get so much natural resources when we expand and we bring so many advancements to these countries which improve them. So if you’re not sure whether imperialism is right or not just look at the facts and statistics and you will see that Imperialism is the way to go. Long live the Queen and also this great empire which the sun never sets on.
Right now, there is no doubt that Britain stands as the great power of the world. With holdings in India, Africa, in addition to attempts at China, there are very few nations who can stand up to what Britain has achieved. But what has been the cost of all of this Imperialism leading to land and power? Some strongly agree with the ideals of Imperialism and what it has to offer, yet I certainly do not. I feel that there are tons of flaws with Imperialism in addition to the British policy concerning it these days. The selfishness of us British has really caused problems in the nations that we control including deaths as well as destruction of land and culture.
My main concerns rest in the area of Africa, where British citizens such as Cecil Rhodes have caused major damages. Everyone knows Rhodes and his racist antics. His indulgence in diamonds and lands that were not even his started off his imperialism. Rhodes was infamous for taking advantage of the Natives of Africa. He fought with them for control of land, and he used much more advanced weaponry than they had to incite a massacre. This was a completely unfair move by Rhodes. He also came to develop extremely racist ideas that spread to many other places, the main part of which stated that "the white man was superior to anyone else." These racist thoughts came about because of this Imperialism and the desire for control over all other people. Once the end of the Boer War came and the Imperialism in Africa by the British came close to an end (as far as I see it), the expansion did not end up helping anyone except for the British, who had a large hunger for other lands. Rhodes strongly desired land and power, and kept on fighting against much weaker opponents. Even though during the Boer War the Dutch won the first part, as more and more British troops were shipped down to Africa, England was able to gain victory. Then after the brutal defeat of the Boers, some were put into prison camps with harsh conditions. Even though this is recent news, many people, including myself, are opposing the internment of the Boers. Many are dying everyday and the British military in charge does not care one bit. Finally, money is being put into this expansion that should be kept within Britain for certain improvements. Britain is really only in this for money and land and all in all, imperialism is not benefiting the rest of the world.
Yes, Imperialism is helping to create Britain as a major world power, but is it worth it to destroy lives, land, and even whole cultures? Please ask yourselves that question in order to make an informed decision about this vital issue.
In the past decade, our nation, amongst others, has been in a scramble to imperialize countries; mainly Africa and Asia. Our great nation of Britain controls a large fraction of the Earth, and rightfully so, because we rightfully are on the top rung. Recently, however, public opinion has started to sway towards abolishing further ambitions for imperialism. While we have done great things that benefit the countries under our rule, I still believe that our expansion has to stop.
The detrimental effects of imperialism can be seen by viewing the partitioning of Africa by European countries. Over the past several decades, the scramble for Africa has caused many violent clashes and unnecessary deaths. We as Europeans have exploited our power and military dominance to unfairly manipulate the African people. In Rhodesia, the Maxim gun was used to slaughter thousands of indigenous tribal warriors. How can we be helping these people if we are massacring them for the sole purpose of land and resources? We say that we are modernizing these barbarians by teaching them the ways of the west, but how are we helping them when they are being forced off their land so we can search for gold? The same selfishness can be seen in China. Although the trade of opium is banned here in Great Britain, our government practically encourages merchants to sell it abroad in China. Not only are we directly causing chaos, but we as a nation are now being seen as barbarians too, and for good reason; we are destroying the order of the world solely for economical benefits. In India, we are abusing our dominance and using the resources for industrial benefits here in England. While this does boost us economically, it is costing India large sums of money and labor. By creating an embargo in India to force them to only trade with us, we are paying a fraction of the price for raw goods, causing the wages of the Indian workers to dramatically decrease.
In addition to needless deaths and casualties, our expansion has destroyed cultural traditions of the nations that we control. In India, for example, we have taken control of their government. Our abuse of the caste system allows us to easily control a large portion of the country with little effort. While we may be educating the people and removing some inhumane customs, we still exert a predominantly English force onto their culture. The number of British government workers is such a small percent of the whole Indian population that the Indians cannot get what they want. The threat of imperialization in Japan has forced them to modernize away from the honorable feudal system. To replace warlords with samurais, military modernization brings in European/American generals and guns. This causes civil unrest in Japan, with the samurais waging battles against the new Japanese Imperial Army.
As seen all around the world, our imperialism has brought much turbulence to simple countries who simply want to be free and uncontrolled by an outside force. Despite all we have done to benefit them, we are still applying force. As the Indians say, we are a “sugar-coated knife”.
There has been a recent tend towards empire expansion in the African continent. This is driven by men who have been stationed there by the British Government, and seem to act on their own whims. This cannot be allowed if the Great British Empire is to be seen as prestigious as we, the people, would like our country to be seen. These acts are not only uncalled for, they can be directly correlated with the “barbarians” that the men seek to conquer and destroy. But, this is not a new humanistic feature that is being demonstrated by the British stationed in Africa, mainly the Sudan. This practice of imperialism has been practiced by many civilizations worldwide for ages. This practice of seeking to expand one’s country not only geographically, but economically, should be a considered a crime against nature. To put down one civilization in order to create for your own is simply foolish.
The man that is currently putting his not only imperialistic, but racist ideas on Africa is one Cecil Rhodes. He is the archetypal imperialist, seeking only to expand his own riches and conquer land. His main goal is to construct a railroad system that would connect Cairo to the Cape. A noble idea in its early stages, but the lengths that this man would take to realize his goal would be astonishing. He had a total disregard for whoever was in his way during this conquest. He wanted this railroad built and that was the end of it. In order to reach his goal he initiated a war with the neighboring Bohrs. This would end up being extremely costly for the British at the time. What he thought would be an easy victory ended up being one of the biggest military movements the British had ever endeavored on. The Bohrs were armed extremely heavily with Maxim guns, and knowledge of the time. This ended up being costly economically and in life. Deaths can even be connected back to the Royal Family.
This shows how the evils of imperialism can rear its ugly head at any turn. I beg that if you are reading this paper, show some interest in what I have told you. Tell your neighbors, anyone that will listen and preach to them the evils of imperialism, so Britain can
The age of Imperialism has dominated our homeland for decades, and now, as Britons, we find ourselves asking: Is this worldwide domination worth its setbacks? In India, our efforts to pursue the white man’s burden has led to high tolls, but even more substantial gains as it comes to economic growth. Imperialism in nations such as this is beneficial not only to us, the mother country, but to the people positively changed by our rule.
We have found our economy growing exponentially with the takeover of Indian resources in our aid, and in this way strengthened our own industries here at home. Our arrival in this country has led to their much needed acceleration in industrialization, as we have brought the mechanics of railroads and other wondrous technology these people would not have otherwise been given the chance to enjoy. We have brought to them the riches of industry and mines, while enjoying their prospects for ourselves as well-deserved payment. Our supremacy has proved to be rightful and helpful in bettering the Indian barbarism as it was before, helping to change it into a civilized society. No more shall the customs of horrific bonfires continue, women throwing themselves atop these heaps similar to pagan sacrificial ceremonies once gaped at by enlightened men! We have bestowed our English education and customs upon these people, ceasing to allow horrific practices to take place, and instead introduced secondary schools and colleges to those willing to learn. We have even allowed those noble enough to be trained to join as subordinates in our illustrious army and government. Our nation has brought the virtues of a functioning society to a land plagued with civil wars and unrest; we have forever improved the lives of so many, as it is our right and duty to do so! Therefore, the continuation of imperialism in all its practices has several more benefits than drawbacks, as it further strengthens our nation and proves to the world the worth of British customs as deemed by God true. In order to spread these, necessary force must be taken, as the example of a now changed India shows us.
My dear fellow Englishmen, I’m touching on a delicate matter this day. Imperialism: Good or Evil? I find it to be good. We proud Englishmen are bringing light to the dark countries that need us to bring them up to speed with the world. Take India for example; it is a place we help greatly. Did you know that the women there are forced to jump onto their husband’s funeral pyre in the practice of suttee? What an atrocity! Even though it is only in certain parts of India, we civilized people must show them the way; and the way is our way. But it is difficult to teach these savages anything without causing them to have feelings of dissent. They clearly lack the comprehension to civilize themselves. We give them so many good things to top it off. We gave them education for one; as they seem to be able to learn if we train them in the right areas and show them our greatness over their own. Our education is also clearing their superstitious nature away, making way for our ideals. Through all these things we also allow them to largely maintain their own government; as long as we English get to call the big shots. Clearly the Indian’s are an example of England’s great achievements.
I’m sure you have all also heard of our expansion into Africa. It is a harsh place, full of violent, aggressive natives. Our very own General Charles Gordon was killed in Africa defending the weak from Mahdist forces. This only shows that these people need our help more than ever. We can give them a better life like Cecil Rhodes tried to do, or at least he did at the start. We should not take Rhodes last moves against the Boers as the only action he did, although he made a mistake there. His efforts to expand our great England should be an example to us all. Imagine all these people helped by us; growing and prospering because we gave them aid. Our strength will be unmatched because of all our colonies. No matter the setbacks that may occur, England will be steadfast! To our Great Imperialistic Nation!
~Devil’s Advocate
The lion does not get to the top of the food chain only to squander away his earnings to those who he has dominated. Instead, he flexes his power and dominates those weaker than him and earns the right to be called “King of the Jungle”. Britain has exerted this same dominance throughout the world and should not end now. If we ended our vast imperialism and expansionism, that could be seen as a sign of weakness in this dangerous world. In regions such as India, we have exposed the native people to our rich and vast culture. These natives, living in almost primitive conditions, have never experienced such language and culture before we arrived. Not only have we taught them our language, we have shown them the best works of literature that they would have never experienced before if we had not expanded the great British empire into their regions. The British Empire is the greatest and most dominate in the world, is it not right for these people to learn the English language?
By also expanding into the region of India, we have also saved thousands from ruthless and barbarian traditions. Women would throw themselves atop a fire if their husband had died along with thousands of infants had been slaughtered because of a barbaric tradition. Such disregard for human life should not be tolerated anywhere in the world. By expanding into these regions, we have saved many and begun the change that is needed to end these inhuman traditions. We have brought the Indian culture from the past to the present. We have brought them from their primitive tongues, to the language of her majesty’s empire. They have been given work, culture, and new experiences that they would never have the opportunity to have if we did not expand into their region. In return, we have received a vast amount of resources to help with the increasing industrialization of our great empire. The sun never sets on the British Empire, and we shall never let that sun set by ending the imperialism that our Empire was built upon.
This country has fought through many dangerous wars and battles in the brave fight for glory. Under glorious Kings and Queens, we have shown Europe what we are capable of. Now, in the midst of a new era, we must continue to prove our dominance over those who dare to challenge us. Competing for colonies, struggling for new resources, and building up impenetrable economies, many countries have both directly and indirectly mocked and sneered at us. It is time we show these Russians, Germans, and the people of France what Britain can really do. We must show them through our only hope of imperialism. If we are to beat every other major power in Europe we need to prove just how dominant Britons can be over lesser souls and their countries. Though not just for competition’s sake, imperialism must be practiced for the sake of surviving in this world. Social Darwinism has showed us that if we do not keep up with others, than we Britons will not be the ones to survive in the future. So, for our sake, we need to prove that we can rule militarily, politically, and economically, over different countries. Otherwise, we may just fade to the background, and only the fittest will survive in society. Also, for the more humanitarian readers out there, I must not fail to mention the burden that we white men carry. As the superior race in the world, we must see to it that lesser people in society learn our ways. It is our duty to provide them the necessary tools to shed their primitive habits and learn our idealistic ways of life. We have a moral responsibility to make sure that people, such as the Blacks and Asians, live responsible and developed life. Take those people in India for example, before we Britons came along they had nothing. Through the advice of the ingenious Rudyard Kipling, we took it upon ourselves to make sure that the brown people had proper education and necessities for life. Through a mindset full of moral values, we made India a better place for learning and growing up. If we follow through with humanitarian efforts, other countries will stare in awe at our marvelous souls. They will follow our example, making themselves subjects, and us Britons the leaders of Europe. Now let me speak to those market buffs who I know picks this paper up and reads it every morning for the latest values and economic issues. You must know all about Britain’s increasing need for resources such as rubber and tin. Through the domination of other countries we may find those resources and harness them for our economy. Values will skyrocket and our economy will be in better shape than ever before. This is the power of imperialism. This is what can happen if we support our leaders in their imperialistic policies. HEY YOU READER. Do you not love your country? Do you not have nationalistic pride running through your veins? Do you not want the best for our beloved Britain? Imperialism will reap so many benefits, the first and foremost is for you: PRIDE.
Imperialism is probably a very delicate topic to write an editorial on, particularly in the moral outrage it tends to provoke today. With a lot of cultures thriving under nationalism now, the idea of having another culture or way of life so firmly superimposed over your own seems horrible. And indeed, the Europeans did some pretty horrible things to the people that they subjugated. But they also weren’t entirely the cruel and evil barbarians that some modern historians tend to eagerly slap on the title of.
It would be completely one-sided and biased to claim the rule of Europeans had no adverse effects. Indeed, China is a prime example of this. When England was losing money to the Chinese in their very imbalanced trade, they sought to find a material that was cheap but that would produce a big profit and a big demand in Chinese profits. Though Opium was illegal in Great Britain because of it’s addictive qualities, the people of England didn’t seem to think it a problem to simply turn a blind eye to the tons of drug being shipped into China and getting the people there cracked up on it. This typified the overlying feeling of the age of imperialism, where Europeans allowed themselves higher moral ground and special standings in the eyes of themselves and each other. The age of Imperialism was a time of rampant egos, where the white men of Europe thought of it as their job to send out their sons and soldiers in order to take over the inferior peoples of the African, Indian, and often Asian continents. It was an egotistical delusion in their own culture that made them think that all other cultures were inferior and barbaric, and that it was really their duty to make sure they followed the path of the white man as closely and as efficiently as possible.
In the meantime, while it does not completely justify their actions at all, imperialists can at least be pardoned for some key points. Firstly is that they truly were trying to do well in society. Although it wasn’t seen this way by the natives, the imperialists were ultimately trying to spread the benefits of their society to those less fortunate. While they went about it in an entirely unhelpful and domineering way, their intentions do seem to have been backed by good intentions, which does improve their image a little. Also, oftentimes in the manner of trying to make the people of native lands more ‘civilized’, they provided them with educational opportunities they wouldn’t have gotten if they had merely stayed at home.
Ultimately, while the wrongs of the attitude are basically irreconcilable and reek of an egocentricism that will persist long after the foundation of Social Darwinism, some of the benefits and good intentions behind imperialism help it to redeem itself.
The Economist
Truths On British Imperialism
Since the time of the signing of the Magna Carta, where the British people at last had obtained a fair measure of power, Britain has been at the centre of the world, both economically and politically. God has made it clear to us that the Anglo-saxon English man is clearly the one meant to dominate this Earth. Nothing more would warm this editor's heart than to see the colours of Britain's majestic red and blue flag flying over every single country in the world. Already, we Britains inhabit the country who controls nearly 20% of the world's population and rules over an empire so vast, that the sun will never set upon it. Does God's favour not shine upon us unendingly like the sun upon our awe-inspiring empire? Is it not clear?
Not many months previous, Rudyard Kipling wrote a delightful poem entitled, "The White Man's Burden," and truly it is a burden. We must "Fill full the mouth of Famine And bid the sickness cease...[and] seek another's profit, And work another's gain". Whilst Kipling is correct in his statements, it is misconstrued. We should not view civilising and improving other civilisations a burden, but as a god-given-duty to this world. It not a duty, but an opportunity for us British to help the world and educate the heathens.
This magazine has repeatedly stated its belief in the benefits of imperialism throughout the globe in the past. In India, we have acted only in benefit of the indigenous peoples. We have educated them and taught them our language. The upper class has even taken it as their own.
In the African region, we have civilised areas of Africa from South Africa all the way up to Cairo. With us we have brought unbelievable wealth for the people, not just in money, but in knowledge in technology as well, technology that they would not have been able to obtain for at least another score of millenia without the help of intelligent British minds.
Thomas Macaulay half a century ago gave a speech called, "On Empire and Education". He also argues for the education of those we rule over in India. Whilst I do agree with minor premises made in Macaulay's speech about education, the underlying arguments presented in his speech are wrong. He claims that our holding of such a vast empire is a "despicable policy". Macaulay, sadly, is naive and highly idealistic. Surely, he cannot truly believe that such a barbaric people who had practices of burning widows could ever hope to accomplish anything without the help of the mighty British empire?
Macaulay, also has the wrong ideals in mind. It is not for profit that we should so civilise the Indians, it is for the aforementioned, "White Man's Burden". I must yet again restate and reemphasise, that it is not for profit that the British empire should work towards expanding its already mighty empire. It is for God, glory and country that we pursue imperialism to this end.
This humble editor will continue to support imperialism, and the spread of true British Godliness to the rest of the world as a true servant of God and his Will.
For my readers who cheer for Rhodes’ triumphs, do you recall this statement of his? Rhodes once boasted, “If there be a God, I think what he would like me to do is to paint as much of Africa British red as possible.” However, supporting Rhodes is not supporting the “British red.” It is endorsing the spillage of red blood, the massacre of indigenous people. Africa is already painted with Boer red, Sudanese red, and Matabele red.
Rhodes calls the natives barbarians, savages, inferior people, and many other derogatory terms, but, dear readers, please do not fall captive to his words. Those “inferior people” had the courage to stand up to his Maxim guns with spears and clubs. The “barbarians” included simple farmers; they were families trying to defend their land. Where is the justice in the slaughter of such people? Nearly half a century ago, the Chinese Commissioner in Canton pronounced the British barbarians, and now, our beloved empire’s current policies have truly turned us into such. We have blindly tottered after Rhodes as he strode forward with insatiable personal ambition and tolerated his actions by accepting his mollifying speeches. How foolish were we to idolize the man who founded Rhodesia. He is no Alexander the Great, and we are not an ancient civilization. The British Empire is a respectable entity, dedicated to serving its citizens.
To those who cry that imperialism is for the benefit of our glorious country, I recognize that Britain benefits from conquests. However, our current policies are too aggressive and too heartless. Kipling wrote that we ought to “Take up the White Man’s burden - / The savage wars of peace –” (lines 17-18), but Britain is not fighting for peace now. Instead, our savage wars are for plunder and prosperity. For example, Rhodes authorized his men to kill 3,000 natives in one day for his gold mines. The profit from the gold cannot return the steep cost of slaughtering those men.
Instead of senseless murder, imperialism should be more like it was in India. There, we actually helped the people in some aspects. We provided education, which is important even if many were reluctant to do so. Furthermore, even native Indians attested to our beneficial presence. Dadabhai Naoroji praises the progress made, especially “in the cause of humanity.” His only complaints involved politics, finances, and raw materials, but those are typical contentions between an empire and its new addition. Overall, British influence saved and improved lives in India.
Imperialism should improve both the conquering nation and the conquered nation. Britain needs to revert back to the humane method of expanding her empire, because the current standard of massacre is not acceptable. How can we be the empire on which the "Sun Never Sets" if our actions are not fit to be carried out in the sunlight? How can we preach Christianity when we do not obey even the basic tenets of not coveting or murdering? British behavior in Africa has turned our empire into a hypocritical charlatan.
One of the dominating issues in Britain as of late has been the topic of imperialism. The word “Imperialism”, synonymous with the thieving acts of tearing through foreign nations in search of wealth has been proclaimed to the people of this country to be supported by various theories such as “survival of the fittest”. However, as one who knows firsthand about the true nature of Imperialism I write this editorial today to explain the waste of the lives that are lost fighting this unseen war outside our country.
One example that I believe shows the true waste of lives that our nation has abused in its pursuit of power would be the power scramble of Africa between the British and various other European nations. As a citizen of Britain I feel ashamed that my country could be at the forefront of such evil towards an indigenous population. If my personal knowledge about the issues at hand in the African continent was not where it presently is, I would feel proud to know that the man named Cecil Rhodes was a Britain like myself. However, what the news fails to tell the majority of the population is how this man has gained such incredible power and wealth. His goal of creating a trans-continental railroad across Africa nags his daily thoughts and causes him to do anything in his power (which happens to be quite a lot) in order to achieve this goal. His ever increasing greed for more monetary wealth was evident when tricked the native king Lobengula to hand over all of his land and basically all of his power to Rhodes. Here is where the destruction of lives comes into play. After obtaining all of the Matabeleland land, Rhodes pressed on wards with an army of hired mercenaries equipped with a titanic weapon of massacre, the Maxim gun. In a single day this hired army killed 1,500 Matabele while losing only 4 men thus proving my point about an unnecessary loss of lives due to our nations increasing support of imperialism.
I know that it is hard for much of the population and especially the wealthy who are reaping the benefits of British imperialism to see the negativity that this process is doing to indigenous nations. However, I like to think that as a nation we can see the mistakes we are making by pursuing world domination and an empire on which the sun will never set. Instead of concentrating our vast wealth and resources overseas in nations some of us will never get to see, we should us this wealth to improve our crumbling society and to build ourselves up to a nation that will never crumble like the fallen empires of Rome and Persia.
The Age of Imperialism has inevitably dawned on Britain. Our great Queen Victoria now controls nearly one fifths of the world’s population. Yet, despite Britain’s glory, imperialism will soon prove to be far less than a boon to our glorious nation. Imperialism has already proved itself a risky effort that has caused us to make many enemies around the world. By instilling our culture onto indigenous peoples elsewhere in the world, who have histories of their own, we are giving these people a “knife of sugar”, as said by Badabhai Naoroji when criticizing the British in India. Although there are instances where our holding of their nation benefitted the people greatly, such as allowing the people to create infrastructure, but no matter how sweet the knife we give to India, “a knife…is a knife notwithstanding.” By continuing imperialism, we are risking revolts against Britain from, though inferior, countless numbers of people. Is taking over a barbaric land worth the blood spilled of our British counterparts? And even if we are in control, how long will this control last?
Already, precious British blood has been spilled in the name of imperialism. We have already managed to gain enemies, such as China. For many centuries, China had closed its doors to the outside world. In the past century, however, we have been interacting with the empire, trading with them for precious tea and resources. In return for their valuables, we have sold them our opium from the India. The Chinese quickly became addicted to this opium, and we were able to ingeniously turn the rhythm of the trade around in our favor. Yet, this addictive drug has proved to give detrimental effects on China. Many people have died from its effects, such as the Emperor’s son, and the demand for opium has depleted the Chinese treasury. In letters to our great Queen Victoria, Lin Zexu, the Chinese commissioner at Canton, diplomatically asked the British to stop the importation of the blighting drug to China. As Lin stated, we have “no regard for injuring others.” He asks bluntly, “How can you bear to go further, selling products injurious to others in order to fulfill your insatiable desire?” By selling opium to the Chinese, we were not benefiting China or its people; it is with greed for money that we continued to allow the Chinese to suffer their transient lives under the influence of opium. When the Chinese attempted to stop opium importation and use, we blasted their harbors open and looted their valuables. Our actions, though they were for the benefit for the growth of our empire, not only spilled the blood of our own soldiers, but also caused other nations to view the British Empire with contempt and condescension. Even imperialism and the prize of foreign goods and lands are not worth the great British Empire to lose its dignity and status in the world.
Is taking up the white man’s burden worth the retribution we will receive for our efforts? The answer to this question, and thus to the question of whether or not imperialism is beneficial, is no. As Rudyard Kipling points out in his infamous poem, “The White Man’s Burden”, in attempting to change the ways of the silent and the sullen, no matter what our intentions, we will be met with opposition and anger, and viewed as foreign monsters that hunger for power. With domination also comes responsibility for the well-being of the people. If not cared for, the people will cause unrest, and further bloodshed will be seen. If imperialism is such a white man’s burden, with few foreseen lasting benefits for our great empire, why take up this burden?
British Times-Herald:
London, England – Over the past few centuries, our marvelous nation, Great Britain, has been at the forefront of world progress in every conceivable way. We have dominated the world as a great “mother country”. We have created an empire on which the sun never sets. Our economic dominance over many lands has lead to lucrative gains for Britons, but, do the ends justify the means? Does the wealth and prestige that we have accrued compensate for the loss of freedom and life of other human beings?
I say no. While worldly riches are appealing to every color and creed, murder and enslavement do not justify obtaining them. In order to maintain control of our possessions in Africa, Her Majesty’s military has embarked upon two violent, unnecessary expeditions. In the Sudan, thousands of natives were mercilessly slaughtered in a single day. Is money worth the lives of 10,000 men, even if they can be considered barbaric? And even then, who are we to judge whose cultures are barbaric and whose are not. In the eyes of the native African, the white, western man may be the barbarian who invades other lands and slaughters for money.
In other places, such as India, our presence is not wanted. Dadabhai Naoroji called the British control of India, a “knife of sugar.” While some of them may enjoy our “enlightened” rule, hence the sugar, a knife is a knife none the less. While they may enjoy the social reform and the restructuring of their governments, we are still stabbing them, as we are the Africans, by stealing their natural resources and dominating their economy. Progress can be made no where if the natives are not the ones progressing.
We can not enter under the pretenses that it is our duty to help the natives, and then fail to properly help anyone but ourselves. It is this fundamental flaw in imperialism that makes it such and evil policy. The natives are told that we are here to help them progress culturally, yet instead, they are blindfolded and robbed, setting back their society further.
Imperialism is defined as, “the policy of extending the rule or authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries”. I do not think that imperialism is a good prospect to have; it is usually disliked by the country being annexed, as they are forced to assimilate to our (British) culture and fit in to our society (even though we refuse to ever see them as equals). Why would we try so hard to force our ways of life upon another group of people, force them to live as we do, and then, not even recognize them as our own when they do assimilate? I believe that the British people need to be more accepting of other cultures, religions, races, and societies besides our own. I feel that, in our search for land, if we happen to come across a land that we want, but it’s already inhabited by people, then we should leave it alone, it does not belong to us. Take India for instance, this is a land which we have imperialized and controlled for many years now, I believe that a better way to go about attaining the vast raw materials in the country of India would have been to ask to trade with them. This solution would have shown a level of respect towards the Indian people, there is no respect in imperialism. Respect is a two-way street, if we show respect towards the Indians, then perhaps they will treat us with respect too. We cannot use the tactic of imperialism and expect respect in return.
Imagine you are a young child living in India during the British imperialization, do you think that you will have a good first impression of the British? Do you think that your parents are going to tell you, “It’s okay, the British are helping us!”. If you answered “no” to those questions, then you are on board with how the Indians felt. As Dadabhai Naoroji expressed in his writing “The Benefits of British Rule, 1871”, the Indians wanted to govern themselves! While Naoroji expressed gratitude towards the British in speaking of the new roads they had built in India, the improved school systems that include both boys and girls, and the abolition of infanticide among other improvements, he still felt a desire for the British to leave the Indians alone. His tone was thankful for all the good that has been done for him, but feels as though the Indians are capable enough to do it themselves; it’s sort of a “thanks, but no thanks” situation.
I think that every Imperial country should learn to mind their own business and end imperialism. Imperialism only leads to resentment on part of the subject towards the imperial power that controlled them, and this feeling leads to bad relations with the subject after it is taken out of Britain’s control. I can’t imagine that the Indians will like us after we lose control of their country. I feel that a policy of diplomacy, “the conduct by government officials of negotiations and other relations between nations”, would have been a better approach to success in India and the other imperialized nations. Notice that the definition of the word “diplomacy” talks of “relations between nations”, implying that both nations involved are working out their problems to form a solution that is agreed upon by both parties, as opposed to imperialism, which is more of a one-sided situation (where the dominant country takes over and controls the inferior nation).
Overall, I feel that imperialism is a terrible way of working with other nations, and the key to success is to work together with these foreign nations to come up with agreements that both of the parties can deal with. It would be a win-win situation, our country would get the raw materials it needed (via trade), and the other would either get what they needed in return. When it comes to foreign relations, we must be careful not to be greedy, to accept other peoples, even if we might feel they are inferior to us. Inferior or not, we need them, and it works out better for everyone if we just admit that we need them and trade with them rather than hide behind the belief that they are inferior beings, and take their country over.
It is with the best interests of the peoples and whole entity of Britain that I write on the subject of imperialism today. While some may say that the imperialistic actions our great nation has undertaken have been undeniably in the light of the greater good of all man as well as nothing shy of a miracle, I champion a different perspective. Imperialism, although it may be a very necessary process for the progress of our people, and in all reality a driving force in our nation’s power, the manner in which Britain has gone about it is far from honestly justifiable.
The scramble for Africa, which occurred from 1881 to 1914, incurred an onslaught of greed, violence, and at times, inhuman action. Cecil John Rhodes looked to grab as much as africa as he could, and did so by tirelessly working every man he was able to get under his control. He exploited the land, and the people, and only looks to make more profit from the pains of others.
The so-called Opium Wars between our nation and China, shed bright light on the inhuman aspects of our imperialistic policies. Outlawed in our country for many years, due to the well-know detrimental health effects, opium is a product that we continue to trade with China for, solely to make our pockets fatter. Thousands of Chinese are dying each year due to our actions. We grow it in India with the sole purpose of exporting to China, and to the avail of China’s leader, Lin Xezu, we do so. He has stated that our actions are “barbaric”, and that our nation is exploiting millions of people for their own selfish profit. I say its high time we began listening to the voices outside of our own nation.
While necessary and ultimately beneficial, our nation needs to rethink its methods and ideas concerning imperialism, before its too late.
There is no doubt in my mind that imperialism is necessary for the greater good of our country. If we, the British, do not expand our territory and influence, other powers will. So, for the sake of argument, imperialism is a necessary policy for any successful world power in this day and age. However, the true argument lies in the method we have used in the past and continue to use today. Some would argue that to the most benefit comes through the exploitation and capitalization of the resources of all subject territories.
Let us consider the disadvantages of such a method. There will always be a high risk of dissent amongst the people, of chaos and unrest, and of losing the territory to popular appeal. Some would say that through military occupation, these risks are negligible. This is not true. Firstly, military presence would only do more to anger the people of the region. And not even the entire army could subdue an angered native population, especially in India and our other territories with high population density. Another disadvantage is that the people simply might not comply. They would refuse to cooperate, to aid in battle against rival European colonists or to provide a reliable labour force.
What is a better method of imperialism? The answer to that question lies in China and India. When dealing with unified and advanced civilizations such as China, we should not even attempt to invade it by force (at least at first) and take the resources. This is costly, both in terms of the lives of British men and financially. Instead, we could open a trade route, guard said route with Her Majesty's Royal Navy to prevent other powers from competing and at least attempt to reap benefits in that way. With the case of China, this was partially successful except that there was no balance of trade. Our introduction of opium for trading was a wise choice which respected the sovereignty of China while ensuring we had the maximum benefit.
With civilizations such as India, a different approach is necessary. I believe we did not follow the best plan for India. Regardless of what we did in the past, moving forward we should: educate the people, respect their culture and tradition by allowing them to study in their native language, and provide them limited autonomy. We should also give the native people more rights to keep the public opinion better. It should be noted that people will always resent occupation of the variety that is practised in India but through a well orchestrated public opinion program we can show them the alternative is not much better.
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