Tuesday, February 2, 2010

More Than 100 Years Later, the World I Live In Still Displays the Impact of the New Imperialism

The New Imperialism took place over 100 years ago, but it has not been forgotten. No, I'm not talking about it simply being taught in history classes- it had several significant impacts worth mentioning. Firstly, this time period included the creation of the Suez Canal, which is still heavily used today, profiting very many. In addition, it was during the New Imperialism that much foreign nationalism came in to play. Whether it be the Zulus or Indians, Asante or Chinese, groups of natives banded together to attempt to drive out the "foreign devils" who were upsetting their lifestyles. While these revolts were not always successful, they caused unity among many divided tribes, and this unity began to lay the foundation for many of the nations known today. Another effect was the beginning of interest among children in explorers such as Henry Stanley in his search for Dr. Livingstone, who often became their heroes and subjects of the games they played. This sort of thing is still around today, with kids playing games like explorers or pirates or wizards. All in all, the effects of the New Imperialism can still be found today, if you know where to look for them.

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