Imperialism is a special internal structure of the economy, society and some political institutions. As an independent system, it developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, in the most developed countries of the world. It is precisely at this period that the dawn of capitalism also falls, which is inextricably linked with imperialism. Read about what unites these two concepts, as well as about the features of such a system.
Definition of the term
From the point of view of history and political science, imperialism is the highest degree of capitalism. This happens at a time when the monopolies formed by the bourgeoisie, or by simple entrepreneurs, become the ruling class in the state. Capitalists, whose worldview is based on liberalism, equality and hard work, during this period become representatives of the typical ruling elite, which is trying to take everything into their own hands. Moreover, in the course of the seizure of funds, a struggle is unfolding between monopolies within one state. Later, this confrontation passes to the international level.
World imperialism
Imperialism reached its apogee at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, precisely when the monopolies occupied a dominant position in every highly developed state. It is believed that such phenomena always precede a social revolution. It was on this model that events developed at the beginning of the last century, which led to a change of power in Russia, as well as to the World War, which changed the course of history throughout Europe. Research on this subject was made by V.I. Lenin. In his opinion, imperialism is a transition from quantity to quality, from private to public property. Everyone is well aware that at the dawn of the formation of the USSR, banks transferred their enormous capital to the state account, production, educational institutions, and so on, also became state-owned.
Features and environment
As a rule, imperialism’s entry to the world level begins with the capture of the domestic market. Since all the power of this phenomenon is concentrated precisely in finance, it becomes easier to capture the leading industries. Thus, the bourgeoisie is chosen on the international market, blocking certain trade routes, or opening those that are beneficial for them. It is worth noting that imperialism is a phenomenon that is typical only for highly developed states. It is also important that the number of wealthy people is very impressive. They will be able to form monopolies that will compete among themselves, as well as fight against similar foreign structures.
