DBQ Imperialism and Change
Historical Context:
Between 1870 and the 1900's, the second wave of European imperialism occurred. This
"scramble for colonies" commonly referred to as the "new imperialism" left Europe in
control of half the surface of the earth and one third of the earth's people. There are
various viewpoints both positive and negative regarding the impact of Imperialism on the
people of Europe and Africa.
Directions:
 Read documents 1-5 and answer the scaffolding questions
 Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs and a
conclusion
Task:

Identify the positive and negative impacts on the Colonies

Evaluate the impact, was it positive or negative on the colonies
Document 1
1. What European countries imperialized Africa prior to World War I?
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Document 2
Take up the White Man's burden-Send forth the best ye breed-Go, bind your sons to exile
To serve your captives' need;
To wait, in heavy harness,
On fluttered folk and wild-Your new-caught sullen peoples,
Half devil and half child.
- Rudyard Kipling
1. According to document 2, what is the “White Man’s Burden”?
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2. What was the imperialist view of the colonists?
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Document 3
1. What were some positive impacts of imperialism on India?
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2. What were some negative effects of imperialism on India?
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Document 4
1. What was the impact of the foreign wars and rebellions on China?
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Document 5
1. What does this author cite as the negative effects of imperialism?
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2. What does he cite as the positive effects?
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