Ch 19

In the 19th century, Europe's golden age of expansion spread quickly. Europe was the core economy of the world, although many people were moving out of Europe and into new lands. During the Industrial Revolution, there was high demand for raw materials and agricultural products. European capitalists often invested money abroad specially with its many colonies it had around the world. Colonies represented a symbol of great power and nationalism erupted with it. The developments from the industrial revolution mmade overseas expansion possible like steamships and underwater telegraph. Eventually Europeans discovered quinine which prevented Malaria which had killed so many people before the discovery. Europeans believed they were superior than everyone else in the world from religions to race. When the Europeans started to feel the need to civilize native people in their colonies, they believed it would benefit them. By bring christianity, education, health careinto their lifes, the natives life was changed forever, for he better or the worse. Although europeans were sure they were helping socities progress and be more civilized. I see this action can be both right and wrong. From the point of view of the Europeans, if your used to living with luxuries, under a government, and in good conditions, one would think why wouldnt anyone else living less want to live like us? Although that isnt necessarly the case. Native people had different traditions and cultures that had rich history and root to it. When foreign people who dont have the same language as you, completely different background as your own people, can be quite a cultural shock. Im sure there was some positive things natives learned from the Europeans, but they also didnt have to deal with diseases, hierachy, arms that could really hurt people. They were accustomed to the natural humble life until the Europeans came.