Difference Between
versus

Imperialism vs. Colonialism: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Imperialism is a policy of extending a country's power through diplomacy or military force; Colonialism involves the full or partial control over another country and exploiting it economically.
Imperialism vs. Colonialism

Key Differences

Imperialism is a broader concept encompassing the extension of a nation's authority over other lands by political, economic, or military means. Colonialism is a form of imperialism focused on the settlement and economic exploitation of a territory.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
Imperialism often involves the use of power, whether through diplomacy, cultural influence, or military force, to control other nations. Colonialism, however, specifically refers to establishing colonies in which the colonizing country settles its population.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
Historically, imperialism has been driven by the desire for territorial expansion, strategic advantage, and control of resources. Colonialism has typically involved the direct administration of overseas territories and their integration into the colonizer's economy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
Imperialism can exist without formal colonies, exerting influence through economic or political means. Colonialism implies a degree of physical occupation and direct governance of a foreign territory.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
In contemporary terms, imperialism is often seen in the context of global influence and economic dominance. Colonialism is mostly historical, associated with the era of European expansion and the establishment of colonial empires.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Definition

Extending power by diplomacy or force
Establishing control over another country
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Means

Diplomatic, cultural, military
Settlement, economic exploitation
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Administration

Indirect or direct control
Direct governance
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Presence

No physical occupation needed
Involves physical occupation
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Contemporary Context

Global influence, economic dominance
Mostly historical, less common now
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Imperialism and Colonialism Definitions

Imperialism

Dominance of a powerful nation over weaker nations.
Imperialism often leads to cultural and economic changes in the dominated country.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Colonialism

A form of imperialism focused on occupying and controlling a territory.
Colonialism often resulted in the cultural assimilation of native populations.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Imperialism

A policy of extending a country's power and influence.
The 19th century was marked by European imperialism across Africa and Asia.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Colonialism

Subjugation of one country by another to exploit its resources.
The history of the Americas is deeply affected by colonialism.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Imperialism

Control of one country by another through direct or indirect means.
The Cold War era witnessed imperialism through political and economic influence.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Colonialism

Domination and settlement by a foreign power.
British colonialism led to the establishment of English as a global language.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Imperialism

Exerting influence over other countries for strategic advantages.
Imperialism was used to secure key trade routes and resources.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Colonialism

The practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country.
European colonialism reshaped the political map of Africa.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Imperialism

The extension of a nation's authority by territorial acquisition or by the establishment of economic and political dominance over other nations.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

The policy or practice of a wealthy or powerful nation's maintaining or extending its control over other countries, especially in establishing settlements or exploiting resources.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

A political doctrine or system promoting such extension of authority.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

The policy of a country seeking to extend or retain its authority over other people or territories, generally with the aim of economic dominance.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

The policy of forcefully extending a nation's authority by territorial gain or by the establishment of economic and political dominance over other nations.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

A colonial word, phrase, concept, or habit.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

The power or character of an emperor; imperial authority; the spirit of empire.
Roman imperialism had divided the world.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

Colonial life.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

The policy, practice, or advocacy of seeking, or acquiescing in, the extension of the control, dominion, or empire of a nation, as by the acquirement of new, esp. distant, territory or dependencies, or by the closer union of parts more or less independent of each other for operations of war, copyright, internal commerce, etc. The practise of building or extending an empire.
The tide of English opinion began to turn about 1870, and since then it has run with increasing force in the direction of what is called imperialism.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

The state or quality of, or the relationship involved in, being colonial.
The last tie of colonialism which bound us to the mother country is broken.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

A policy of extending your rule over foreign countries
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

A custom, idea, feature of government, or the like, characteristic of a colony.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

A political orientation that advocates imperial interests
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

The colonial system of political government or extension of territory, by which one nation exerts political control over another nation, territory, or people, maintaining the colony in a state of dependence, its inhabitants not having the same full rights as those of the colonial power. The controlling power is typically extended thus by military force or the threat of force.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

Any instance of aggressive extension of authority
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

The political or ideological system of beliefs advocating or justifying colonial control of one nation over another nation, territory, or people.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Imperialism

Expansion of an empire through conquest or colonization.
Ancient Rome's expansion was a classic example of imperialism.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Colonialism

Exploitation by a stronger country of weaker one; the use of the weaker country's resources to strengthen and enrich the stronger country
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Colonialism

Establishing colonies in a foreign land for economic exploitation.
Colonialism in India was driven by the desire for trade and resources.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

How does colonialism differ from imperialism?

Colonialism involves occupying and exploiting a country, a form of imperialism.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

What is imperialism?

Extending a country's power through military or diplomatic means.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Can imperialism exist without colonialism?

Yes, through indirect control like economic influence or political pressure.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

What drives imperialism?

Desire for power, resources, strategic advantage, or cultural dominance.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

How did imperialism shape world history?

It led to the formation of empires and influenced global politics and culture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Are colonies always a result of colonialism?

Yes, colonies are established and governed by the colonizing country.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

How did colonialism impact native populations?

Often negatively, through exploitation, cultural erosion, and conflict.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Can economic policies be imperialistic?

Yes, when they exert control over another country's economy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Is colonialism still practiced today?

It's mostly historical, but some argue neocolonialism exists in economic forms.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

What is an example of colonialism?

The British Empire's control over India and parts of Africa.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Does imperialism always involve military force?

Not always; it can be through diplomacy, culture, or economics.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

What ended traditional colonialism?

Decolonization movements after World War II.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

What are neocolonialism's characteristics?

Economic control and influence without direct political governance.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Can a country be both imperialistic and anti-colonial?

Yes, a country can oppose colonialism but still practice imperialism.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Is imperialism solely a Western concept?

No, many empires throughout history have practiced imperialism.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Is cultural imperialism a form of imperialism?

Yes, it involves spreading a dominant culture over others.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

How do modern views on imperialism differ?

It's often criticized for its impact on global inequality.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

What role does technology play in modern imperialism?

It facilitates cultural and economic dominance.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

How do nations resist imperialism and colonialism?

Through independence movements and promoting local cultures and economies.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Did colonialism contribute to globalization?

Yes, by integrating economies and cultures.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 15, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Smart TV vs. Android TVSmart TV vs. Android TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Smart TV is an internet-connected television with a variety of apps, while an Android TV is specifically a Smart TV powered by Google's Android TV operating system.
Special Education vs. Inclusive EducationSpecial Education vs. Inclusive Education
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Special Education is tailored instruction for students with disabilities, while Inclusive Education integrates all students, including those with disabilities, into general education settings.
Social Change vs. Cultural ChangeSocial Change vs. Cultural Change
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Social change refers to shifts in societal structures and institutions, impacting behaviors and relationships among people. Cultural change pertains to alterations in a group's shared beliefs, values, and customs, influencing their way of life.
C3 Plants vs. C4 PlantsC3 Plants vs. C4 Plants
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
C3 plants use a direct carbon fixation process, common in cooler climates, while C4 plants have a specialized mechanism, efficient in high light and temperature.
Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 8, 2024
The Seagate Exos X16 offers up to 16TB storage with a focus on high-capacity data centers, while the Exos X18 upgrades to 18TB, enhancing performance and capacity for enterprise demands.
Compression Wood vs. Tension WoodCompression Wood vs. Tension Wood
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Compression Wood is a denser, abnormal growth in softwood trees under mechanical stress, whereas Tension Wood is a less dense, fibrous growth in hardwoods under similar stress.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.
Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 1, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers improved scratch resistance and durability compared to its predecessors, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on enhanced drop protection and toughness.
Nanomaterials vs. NanoparticlesNanomaterials vs. Nanoparticles
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Nanomaterials are diverse materials with components smaller than 100nm, whereas nanoparticles are specific, ultrafine particles within this size range.
Gavage vs. LavageGavage vs. Lavage
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Gavage is the process of feeding a person or animal by inserting a tube into the stomach, while lavage is the washing out of a body cavity, such as the stomach, typically for medical treatment.
Travel Agent vs. Tour OperatorTravel Agent vs. Tour Operator
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A travel agent is a professional who arranges travel plans for individuals, while a tour operator designs and manages complete travel packages.
Plant Cell vs. Animal CellPlant Cell vs. Animal Cell
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts for photosynthesis, while animal cells lack these but have centrioles.
Hard Copy vs. Soft CopyHard Copy vs. Soft Copy
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Hard Copy is a physical version of a document or file, usually on paper, while a Soft Copy is a digital version of the document, stored electronically.
Sausage vs. SmokieSausage vs. Smokie
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A sausage is a type of meat product usually made from ground meat, often pork, beef, or poultry, while a smokie is a specific type of smoked sausage.
Batch Fermentation vs. Continuous FermentationBatch Fermentation vs. Continuous Fermentation
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
Batch Fermentation is a finite process where nutrients are added at the start and products are harvested at the end, whereas Continuous Fermentation involves a steady input of nutrients and continuous product harvest.
Japanese Eyes vs. Chinese EyesJapanese Eyes vs. Chinese Eyes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Japanese Eyes and Chinese Eyes refer to linguistic structures in Japanese and Chinese respectively, each reflecting unique aspects of grammar and syntax.
2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
2 Pole Motors have one pair of magnetic poles and run at higher speeds, while 4 Pole Motors have two pairs of poles and operate at lower speeds, offering higher torque.
Absolute Privilege vs. Qualified PrivilegeAbsolute Privilege vs. Qualified Privilege
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 26, 2023
Absolute privilege is a complete defense against defamation claims, often used in legal or parliamentary contexts, while qualified privilege offers conditional protection, requiring the absence of malice.
Analog Computer vs. Digital ComputerAnalog Computer vs. Digital Computer
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
An Analog Computer processes continuous data, whereas a Digital Computer processes data in discrete numerical form.
Handsome vs. SmartHandsome vs. Smart
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Handsome describes physical attractiveness, focusing on looks, while smart denotes intelligence or cleverness, related to mental capabilities.
Goth vs. AltGoth vs. Alt
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 5, 2024
Goth is a dark, often Victorian-influenced subculture and style, while Alt (alternative) is a broader term encompassing non-mainstream styles and attitudes.
White Collar Crime vs. Blue Collar CrimeWhite Collar Crime vs. Blue Collar Crime
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
White Collar Crime involves non-violent, financially motivated offenses often committed by professionals, while Blue Collar Crime refers to physical or violent crimes often by manual laborers.
Consecutive vs. SubsequentConsecutive vs. Subsequent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Consecutive refers to events or things following one after another in uninterrupted sequence, whereas subsequent denotes following in time or order, but not necessarily immediately afterward.
Fast Food vs. Traditional FoodFast Food vs. Traditional Food
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Fast Food is quick, convenient, and often pre-prepared, while Traditional Food emphasizes cultural recipes, longer preparation times, and home cooking.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons