Reasons+For+Imperialism

**__ Reasons For Imperialism __ **

[[image:Cecil-Rhodes.gif width="217" height="274" align="left"]]

 * ==== By gaining control over new populations, Great Britain would be able to gain new markets in which they could sell their goods. ====


 * ==== Great Britain could also take raw materials from their colonies to produce more goods. ====


 * ==== Because the conquering of colonies was a symbol of power and strength, Imperialism increased nationalism within the people of Great Britain. ====


 * ==== Christianity was viewed as a sign of civilization and was thought to be the best way to end the evils of slave trading. Imperialism was an easy way to spread this religion throughout the newly acquired colonies. ====


 * ==== People in Great Britain were mainly Caucasian and viewed themselves as a superior race over Africans and Indians. Imperialism allowed them to spread their "better" culture, technology, and education to the "weaker" races. This is also referred to as Westernization. ====


 * ==== Imperialism allowed Great Britain to gain money from their colonies. This money was used to fund the building of railroads and factories, which caused their economies to grow. ====

Pictured above: a cartoon impression of Great Britain's policy of expansion []

The flag pictured above:

http://www.world-history-today.com/uploads/British_flag.jpg