Final answer:
The motives for new imperialism in the 19th century included the search for new markets and resources due to the industrial revolution, the desire to demonstrate national power and secure strategic military advantages, as well as cultural factors such as the spread of Christianity and Western ideologies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Motives for New Imperialism
The motives for new imperialism in the 19th century revolved around a combination of economic, political, and cultural factors. The industrialized nations were on a quest for new markets and raw materials to fuel their growing industries. The Second Industrial Revolution created a wealthier class that demanded resources like rubber, nickel, tin, and copper for manufacturing, leading to the colonization of regions rich in these materials.
From a political perspective, imperialism served as a means of demonstrating a country's power and prestige on the global stage. The competition among European powers for territorial expansion was also motivated by strategic military advantages, such as securing sea routes and harbors. Socially, cultural motives including the spread of Christianity and the perceived moral duty to civilize 'lesser' societies, often termed the ‘White Man’s Burden’, played a role.
Despite the economical and ideological rhetoric, the imperialistic ventures often led to exploitation and oppression in the colonized countries. Mining and plantation systems sapped the wealth of these regions, causing environmental and societal damage. Moreover, the supposed benefits to the colonized people were largely overshadowed by the brutal methods employed by the colonial powers.