Final answer:
European powers were able to dominate Asia due to their technological advancements following the industrial revolution, a sense of racial and cultural superiority, and nationalism. Japan modernized similarly and gained independence from European extraterritorial control. The European imperialism had diverse outcomes, with some nations later achieving independence and surpassing their colonizers.
Step-by-step explanation:
European Dominance in Asia, European influence and dominance in Asian nations can be attributed to a number of historical factors. European imperialism was driven by a mix of economic interests, technological advancements, and ethnocentric beliefs.
The industrial revolution greatly empowered European nations economically and technologically. During the 19th century, there was a marked shift in European attitudes towards Asia, transitioning from admiration to disdain as Asia had not industrialized in the European fashion. Consequently, Europeans believed they were entitled to rule over other regions due to their perceived racial and cultural superiority.
This sense of racial superiority was coupled with a desire for national prestige and competition among nation-states, which pushed European countries to expand their territories into Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Japan's modernization and successful reforms, which placed it almost on par with European powers, eventually led to the withdrawal of European extraterritorial rights there.
Nonetheless, ethnocentrism and a belief in 'white supremacy' persisted, leading to the subjugation of non-European peoples. Asia, not immune to these ideologies, saw nationalist motivations drive Japan to liberate and dominate East Asian territories previously under European control, utilizing the slogan 'Asia for the Asians'.
The legacy of European imperialism has been mixed. It led to the creation of nation-states that later became independent, including some that surpassed their former colonizers in wealth and influence. However, the European system of sovereign states has also resulted in mass deaths and conflicts both within and between nations.