The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a surge in colonial expansion often termed “New Imperialism.” This period was characterized by intense competition among European powers, the United States, and Japan to acquire overseas territories. A significant driver of this phenomenon was the massive transformation occurring within industrializing nations.
The advancements stemming from mechanization, mass production, and new technologies created a heightened demand for raw materials. Factories required vast quantities of resources like rubber, cotton, and minerals, often found in regions outside of Europe and North America. Furthermore, industrial production outstripped domestic consumption capacity, necessitating new markets for manufactured goods. The pursuit of these resources and markets fueled the drive to establish colonies and exert economic control over less developed nations.
