History: nationalism, imperialism, and resistance

What is nationalism?

A belief in forming sovereign nations with a shared identity; it can unify (e.g., Italy, Germany) or cause conflict (e.g., Austria-Hungary).

What are the key differences between liberals and conservatives in the 19th century?

Liberals wanted change, democracy, and rights. Conservatives wanted tradition, monarchy, and social stability.

What was the Congress of Vienna?

A meeting in 1814–15 led by Metternich to restore political balance in Europe after Napoleon. Monarchies were restored and Europe's map was redrawn.

Define imperialism and colonialism.

Imperialism is domination over another country's political, economic, and social life. Colonialism is setting up settlements and ruling territories.

What is the difference between direct and indirect rule?

Direct rule is when foreign powers control everything; indirect rule allows local leaders to remain under foreign supervision.

What happened at the Berlin Conference?

In 1884–85, European powers divided Africa without African input, causing long-term conflict and exploitation.

Name three African nations involved in resisting colonization

Ethiopia (won the Battle of Adwa), Liberia (remained independent), Ghana (first to gain independence in 1957).

What caused the Opium Wars?

British sold addictive opium in China, leading to conflict; ended with the Treaty of Nanjing giving Britain Hong Kong.

What was the Taiping Rebellion?

A major civil war in China (1850s–60s) led by Hong Xiuquan against the Qing Dynasty; caused around 20 million deaths.

What was the Sepoy Rebellion?

An 1857 revolt by Indian soldiers (sepoys) against British rule due to religious and cultural disrespect.

What was the Meiji Restoration?

Japan’s modernization under Emperor Meiji; led to industrialization, military power, and victories over China and Russia.

How did Southeast Asians resist imperialism?

Through covert actions, mobility, mocking colonizers, and maintaining cultural traditions despite foreign rule.

What technologies enabled imperialism?

Railroads, steamships, telegraphs, gunboats, and the Maxim machine gun made conquest and control easier.

What were the main motivations for imperialism?

Political rivalry, economic gain (raw materials/markets), "civilizing mission," and Social Darwinist beliefs.

What were the effects of the Industrial Revolution?

Positives: increased production, jobs, transportation. Negatives: pollution, child labor, urban crowding, inequality.

Define sphere of influence and protectorate.

Sphere of influence: foreign powers control trade (e.g., China). Protectorate: local government under foreign direction.