Question

In your view, which of the following technologies was most critical to the success of European imperialism and colonialism following the Industrial Revolution: medical advances, firearms, or the steam engine? (4 points)

Answer 1

It would be the steam engine because this encouraged new transportation and people sought out to invent more technology like this.

Answer 2

All of these had a direct impact on imperialism and colonialism. However, the most significant one was perhaps the steam engine. The steam engine allowed people to travel large distances in a very short amount of time. This completely revolutionized transportation. Common people became more interested in travelling and discovering other places and cultures. This fueled imperialism. Moreover, the steam engine allowed industrialization to increase, and in this way, the economy of England improved. As standards of living rose, the demand for luxury items and natural resources that came from other countries rose as well.