Imperialism vs. Mercantilism

Attribute	Imperialism	Mercantilism
Definition	Political and economic domination of one country over another	Economic theory that a country's wealth is measured by its accumulation of precious metals
Main Goal	Expansion of territory and control over resources	Accumulation of wealth through trade and commerce
Means of Control	Direct rule through colonization or indirect influence through diplomacy and economic pressure	Regulation of trade, establishment of colonies, and monopolies on key resources
Impact on Colonized Nations	Loss of autonomy, exploitation of resources, and cultural assimilation	Limited economic opportunities, dependence on colonial powers, and restricted trade

Definition

Imperialism and mercantilism are two economic and political systems that have been used throughout history to expand empires and increase wealth. Imperialism is the policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or other means. Mercantilism, on the other hand, is an economic theory that emphasizes the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and the establishment of colonies.

Goals

One of the main goals of imperialism is to expand a country's territory and influence over other nations. This can be achieved through military conquest, colonization, or the establishment of puppet governments. In contrast, mercantilism focuses on increasing a country's wealth through trade, especially by exporting more goods than it imports and acquiring colonies to provide raw materials and markets for finished products.

Methods

Imperialism often involves the use of military force to conquer and control territories, as well as the establishment of colonies to exploit their resources and labor. This can lead to conflicts with other imperial powers and indigenous populations. Mercantilism, on the other hand, relies on trade policies such as tariffs, subsidies, and monopolies to promote domestic industry and increase exports. Colonies are seen as a source of wealth and markets for goods produced in the mother country.

Impact on Colonized Peoples

Imperialism can have a devastating impact on colonized peoples, as their lands are often taken by force and their cultures and ways of life are suppressed. Indigenous populations may be forced into labor or displaced from their ancestral lands. Mercantilism, while also exploitative, may allow for some degree of economic development in colonies as they become integrated into the global trade network. However, this development is often at the expense of local industries and resources.

Role of Government

In an imperialist system, the government plays a central role in expanding the empire through military conquest and colonization. The government may also establish puppet governments in conquered territories to maintain control. In a mercantilist system, the government's primary role is to regulate trade and industry to promote economic growth and increase wealth. This may involve implementing tariffs, subsidies, and other policies to protect domestic industries and promote exports.

Legacy

The legacy of imperialism can be seen in the lasting effects of colonization on the cultures, economies, and political systems of former colonies. Many countries still struggle with the legacy of imperialism, including issues of poverty, conflict, and political instability. Mercantilism, while no longer a dominant economic theory, has had a lasting impact on global trade and economic policies. The emphasis on accumulating wealth through trade and the use of colonies as sources of raw materials and markets continues to influence international relations and economic development.