Colonialism

/kəˈloʊniəˌlɪzəm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The policy or practice of a country extending its rule over other nations or territories, often by establishing settlements or exploiting resources.

The history of colonialism has left a lasting impact on many countries around the world.

A system where a foreign power exerts control over a dependent territory or people through settlement, economic dominance, or political governance.

Colonialism often involved the suppression of local cultures and the imposition of foreign values.

The relationship between a colonizing country and the colonized territory, characterized by control, exploitation, and cultural dominance.

The literature from that era reflects the power dynamics established through colonialism.

Derived from the Latin word 'colonia', meaning 'settlement', combined with the suffix '-ism' which denotes a practice or ideology.

new colonialism

The practice of exploiting countries through economic means rather than direct military or political control.

decolonization

The process of a country gaining independence from colonial rule.

neo-colonialism

The use of economic, political, cultural, or other pressures to control or influence other countries, often former colonies.

colonizer

A person or entity that settles in another territory and exerts control over it.

colony

A territory governed by a foreign power, typically established through colonization.

indigenous

Referring to the original inhabitants of a region, often affected by colonial practices.

Colo

Some people refer to colonialism as 'colo' when discussing its impact in casual conversations.

C-ism

In activist circles, colonialism is sometimes called 'C-ism' to succinctly describe its pervasive influence.