• History -> Modern and Contemporary History

• 0 Comment

How has imperialism impacted modern international relations?

Kristie Rojel

Imperialism has had a significant impact on modern international relations. The term "imperialism" is often used to describe a policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or economic dominance over other countries.

Historically, many European nations were imperialistic powers and sought to expand their territories and control over the world. This resulted in a lot of cultural exchange and fusion, but it also led to subjugation of weaker nations, exploitation of resources and uneven distribution of global wealth. The consequences of imperialism can still be seen today in various forms.

One common way in which imperialism has affected modern international relations is through the creation of national boundaries and borders. The arbitrary drawing of borders during the colonial era in Africa left disparate tribes and cultures lumped together, leading to unresolved conflicts and ultimately, political instability on the continent. The same is true of the Middle East, where the borders imposed by imperial powers following World War I still do not reflect regional identities and ethnic divisions.

Imperialism also played a significant role in setting up the power dynamic between developed and underdeveloped countries. A clear example of this is the exploitation of natural resources in Africa and South America by colonial powers. Many economies in these regions still remain dependent on exporting raw materials to former colonial powers, resulting in economic underdevelopment and hindering their ability to compete on a global scale.

Imperialism also impacted the international system by creating unequal distribution of global wealth. The rich countries of the ‘West’ are still more economically developed than many countries in Africa, South Asia and parts of Central and South America. This wealth gap is still present in the international system and has been a source of conflict and tension.

Another impact of imperialism is the formation of post-colonial multi-ethnic states. Colonial powers often merged different ethnic and linguistic groups into one state entity; for instance, in India, Nigeria, or Sudan. These countries still struggle to maintain the unity of their diverse populations, and attempts to create a sense of shared national identity have often proved unsuccessful.

In conclusion, imperialism has been a primary driver of the modern international system. The creation of national borders, the disparities in global wealth, and residual post-colonial instability are just a few of the many lasting impacts of imperialism on today's international relations. To foster a more just and equitable world, it is necessary to reckon with the history and continued impact of imperialist actions, and work hard to make amends for the damage caused.