Colonialism: An Introduction

Colonialism is the practice of acquiring control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. The Greeks and Romans set early examples, but the Age of Discovery escalated it globally.

Starting in the 15th century, European nations like Portugal and Spain sought new trade routes, discovering and claiming territories. This era marks significant global cultural and ecological exchanges, later termed the 'Columbian Exchange'.

Beyond English colonies, America saw diverse colonizers. The Swedish had short-lived settlements, such as New Sweden in Delaware, while the Dutch established New Netherland, now New York, before British takeover.

European powers often preferred indirect control in Asia, using 'gunboat diplomacy' to force trade concessions. Notably, the British East India Company controlled large parts of India before formal British rule.

The Berlin Conference of 1884-85, unseen by Africans, divided the continent among European powers, disregarding indigenous boundaries. This division sowed future conflicts, with effects still felt today.

Colonial expeditions often had scientific goals. British Captain James Cook's voyages, for example, were pivotal for botany and astronomy, but also led to the claiming of Australia and New Zealand.

Post-World War II, decolonization began as empires crumbled under war's strain and colonies demanded independence. The creation of the United Nations in 1945 also encouraged self-determination.