Final answer:
Columb's idea of European superiority was rooted in a sense of cultural, intellectual, and civilizational supremacy over other peoples, which was manifested through colonialism and cultural imperialism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Columb's idea of European superiority is apparent in the ethnocentric mindset that Europeans brought with them to the New World. They believed themselves to be innately superior in terms of culture, intelligence, and civilization, and thus, saw the indigenous people as subordinate and in need of the European 'civilizing mission.' This mindset fueled the conquest and colonial endeavors throughout the Americas and beyond.
The European superiority complex was also influenced by the industrial revolution and the burgeoning sense of nationalism across Europe. With these developments, European perspectives shifted drastically. What once was an admiration for Asian cultures turned into scorn, as Asia did not develop industrially like Europe. Many Europeans, misinterpreting Darwin's theories, used biology to claim that Europeans were the superior race, which was thought to justify their colonization and exploitation of other regions.
The European colonization was further driven by a desire for wealth, national glory, and not being left behind in the global scramble for colonies. With this, Europe controlled a large amount of global territory by the 19th century. The European nations engaged in cultural imperialism, often erasing and denigrating the existing cultures in the regions they colonized. These actions were rationalized by a belief in the inherent superiority of European culture and civilization.