Theoretical overview
The concept of nationalism, colonialism and imperialism are interconnected in various ways which has undoubtedly influenced the modern world. It is important to understand these three heads separately to have a clear understanding of what they independently mean.
Nationalism is a powerful ideology and movement that places the nation at the center of political loyalty and identity which assets that people who share a common history, culture and the language should have the right to self-govern. Nationalism arises in response to perceived threats to a Nations identity, autonomy or well-being. It inspires a sense of collective Pride, unity and the pursuit of shared goals. It has played a significant role in the formation of nation states, allowing people to preserve and protect their cultural heritage. Nationalism can also have negative consequences such as feeding conflicts and ethnocentrism. It sometimes led to the marginalization or suppression of minority groups.
Colonialism refers to the practice of powerful Nations acquiring and maintaining control over territories outside their borders which involves establishing political economic and social dominance over the less powerful regions or people. The authority that colonizes a particular territory exploits the resources and imposes its own cultural social and economic systems on the colonized people. It has an effect on the colonizers and the colonized both. For the colonizers, it brings economic benefits, access to resources and expanded markets but also raises moral dilemmas and erodes ethical standards. On the other hand, the colonized people become a bate of exploitation and social inequalities. They also face a lot of cultural suppression which will have a long-term consequence on them.
Imperialism involves the policy or practice of extending a Nations power and influence over other territory or countries which can be achieved through colonization, military force or economic dominance. The one with this approach seeks to expand their spheres of influence and establish political supremacy over the weak nation. Imperialism is often practiced by colonialism as imperial power establish colonies to further their political and economic interests. However, it can be achieved by non-colonial forces as well, such as economic dominance through trade or by indirect control over country’s politics.
In other words, we can say that imperialism is an ideology behind the colonialism and nationalism can be the way to move out from the rigorous colonialism. It states that all of these heads are interrelated in every sense which cannot be neglected.
Points to remember
- Nationalism is a powerful ideology and movement that places the nation at the center of political loyalty and identity which assets that people who share a common history, culture and the language should have the right to self-govern
- Nationalism arises in response to perceived threats to a Nations identity, autonomy or well-being
- Colonialism refers to the practice of powerful Nations acquiring and maintaining control over territories outside their borders which involves establishing political economic and social dominance over the less powerful regions or people
- Imperialism involves the policy or practice of extending a Nations power and influence over other territory or countries which can be achieved through colonization, military force or economic dominance
- However, dominance can be achieved by non-colonial forces as well, such as economic dominance through trade or by indirect control over country’s politics.
