Oklahoma Academic Standard 3. The student will analyze the political, economic, and social transformations brought about by the events of the age of revolutions and imperialism (1750-1900 CE).

Objective 3.5  Explain the rationales for and consequences of imperialism on Asia, Africa, and the Americas, such as colonization and the exploitation of natural resources and peoples; summarize various efforts to resist imperialism.

In a Nutshell

Students should develop an understanding that the Industrial Revolution gave rise to a second wave of imperialism, aimed at gaining access to raw good and guaranteed markets. Through these efforts, imperialistic countries were often met with resistance efforts by native populations, such as the Sepoy Rebellion and the unique story of Ethiopian success.

Teacher Action 

Student Action 

• Assist students to evaluate the impact of government policies , such as imperialism, on market outcomes at national and global levels, past and present. 

• Provide opportunities for students to construct arguments using a combination of evidence for or against imperialist policies.

• Describe alternative solutions to current economic issues in terms of benefits and costs for different groups, such as developed and developing populations.

• Analyze the possible consequences, both intended and unintended, of government policies on markets and international trade.

Key Concepts 

Misconceptions 

• political, economic, social, and religious causes and justifications for Imperialist policies and practices

• impact of imperialist policies on indigenous peoples; exploitation of humans and natural resources; concepts of the "White Man's Burden" and Social Darwinism

• consequences of imperialism on the environment and preservation or availability of valuable resources

• reasons for key resistance movements, such as the Sepoy, Maji Maji  

• Some students find it challenging to consider opposing views toward imperialism.

• Some students consider historical events as occurring exclusively in the past without comprehending that justifications and practices associated with imperialism or colonialism continue to evolve and operate in contemporary events, from time to time.

Instructional Resources