Profile
Settings
Refer your friends
Sign out
When most people hear the word “colonialism,” they might think of Christopher Columbus sailing to the Americas in 1492. But colonialism is a lot older than that. The practice of colonialism can be traced all the way back to ancient times when one group of people conquered another group and took control over their land and resources. So what is the difference between colonialism and imperialism? In this article, we will explore the difference between these two terms and discuss how they have shaped our world today.
What is Colonialism?
Colonialism is a system where one country dominates another economically, politically and socially. The first country established settlements or colonies in the other country in order to carry out its domination. The purpose of colonialism is to extract natural resources, labour and wealth from the colonies to benefit the colonists.
Check out the complete UPSC Syllabus
What is Imperialism?
Imperialism, as defined as “the policy, practice, or promotion of extending power and dominion of a nation by acquiring and holding colonies and dependencies.” In other words, imperialism is the act of a stronger power occupying or controlling weaker territories. Imperialism can be accomplished through military force, economic means, or a combination of the two.
Also see: UPSC Notes
Difference between Colonialism and Imperialism?
Colonialism and Imperialism can be divided between the definition of the basic process, origin, settlement and Eco-political aspects.
Definition:
Colonialism is the policy and practice of a power in extending its control over weaker or dependent territories or peoples, generally with the aim of acquiring raw materials or exploiting other natural resources, populating the area with settlers, and/or extending or consolidating political power.
Imperialism is the policy, practise, or advocacy of extending dominion and power of a nation especially by gaining indirect control over the political or economic life of other areas or by direct territorial acquisitions; broadly: the extension or imposition of power, authority, or influence.
Basic Process
Colonialism is a process that begins with the establishment of a colony in unoccupied territory.
Imperialism is a process that begins with the domination of one country over another.
Origin
Colonialism has its origins in the Age of Discovery when European powers began to establish colonies in other parts of the world.
Imperialism has its origins in the ancient world when empires such as Rome and Greece dominated other countries.
Settlement
In colonialism, the settlers came to live in the colony.
In imperialism, the settlers do not necessarily come to live in the country they are dominating.
Eco-political aspects
In colonialism, the native people and their way of life are often destroyed.
In imperialism, the native people are usually allowed to keep their own way of life.
Visit to know more about How to Prepare for UPSC without Coaching
Conclusion
So, colonialism and imperialism are two different things. Colonialism is the establishment of a colony in a foreign land, while imperialism is one country taking over another country or region by force or coercion. There are many examples of colonialism throughout history, but modern-day imperialism is much less common. However, it’s still important to understand the differences between these two terms so that we can better understand world events and how they have shaped our current society.
