How and why has superpower status changed over time? Flashcards
Bipolar world
Two dominant superpowers, like the USA and USSR during the Cold War.
Unipolar world
One dominant superpower, for example currently with the US.
Or, for example the British Empire, in 1921 the British controlled 1/4 of the population and land space.
Multipolar World
More than three dominant nations, like during the Second World War.
Colonisation
The physical settling of people from a colonial power to a colony in another country.
Colonialism
System by which external nation takes control of territory in another part of the world, often by force.
Imperialism
Often interchangeable with colonialism. To distinguish between the two is to think of colonialism as a practice and imperialism as the idea driving it. The Royal Navy dominated the seas from around 1700 – 1930. The navy provided a link between the home country and over-seas colonies and was a symbol of military power.
Mercantilist Phase of the British Empire 1600-1850:
Small colonies set up on coastal fringes or islands such as Jamaica and New England, Focus on trade was on slaves and raw materials. Private trading companies defended by British forces as East India Trading Company.
Colonial India
British Empire exploited their resources and workforce.
Imperial Phase of the British Empire 1850-1945:
Coastal colonies extended inland. Religion and British culture as well as the English language was introduced. Governments and institutions set up to rule. Development of more complex trade routes.
Technology – Rail and telegraph to connect distant parts of the Empire.
Decolonialisation Phase 1945-
After the Second World War the UK was bankrupt and could support countries in the empire. Anti-colonial movements began and many countries started demanding their independence. Most countries became independent by 1970 because of a focus on post World War II construction.
