Imperialism Study Guide 2026

What was the goal of the Berlin Conference?

• To move all Europeans out of China.

• To divide Africa among European powers.

• To establish trade routes in South America.

• To create a peace treaty after World War I.

The term used in the 19th century for the duty that Europeans felt to "civilize" indigenous people.

• Social Darwinism

• Manifest Destiny

• White Man's Burden

• Colonial Mandate

Political motives for imperialism includes:

• a need for raw materials to be used in factories

• the desire to spread religious beliefs

• the pursuit of scientific discoveries

• the quest for artistic inspiration

Which type or reason for imperialism would best describe the Suez Canal from this description?

• Economic

• Political

• Religious

• Cultural

How was Social Darwinism used to justify Europeans' actions in the age of Imperialism?

• It is natural that stronger, more advanced countries should take over weaker ones.

• It encouraged Europeans to adopt local customs and traditions.

• It promoted equality among all nations.

• It led Europeans to avoid contact with other cultures.

Which of the following is a major reason why countries colonized other nations?

• Need for raw materials

• To reduce population

• To promote world peace

• To avoid technological advancement

What two continents did the Suez Canal divide?

• Asia/Africa

• Europe/Africa

• Europe/Asia

• North America/South America

What is meant by "The Sun Never Sets On the British Empire"?

• Britain is so powerful that it always shines on them.

• It refers to the British Empire's global presence, so there was always daylight in some part of its territory.

• It means the British Empire controlled the weather.

• It means the British Empire was always at war.

Why did Britain consider India its "Jewel in the Crown"?

• India's population and resources made it the most valuable of all the British colonies

• India was the first British colony to gain independence

• India had the smallest population among British colonies

• India was the least profitable colony for Britain

Which statement best describes the information shown on the graph?

• Great Britain continued to smuggle greater amounts of opium into China for as long as they were able to in order to continue making profit.

• Great Britain reduced opium smuggling into China after realizing the negative effects.

• China increased its opium imports voluntarily to boost its economy.

• The opium trade between Great Britain and China ceased completely after a short period.