Question

“Small islands not capable of protecting themselves, are the proper objects for kingdoms to take under their care; but there is something very absurd, in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island. In no instance hath nature made the satellite larger than its primary planet, and as England and America, with respect to each other, reverses the common order of nature, it is evident they belong to different systems: England to Europe…

Answer 1

The student's question deals with the subject of History, focusing on arguments concerning the propriety of a large continent being governed by a smaller island nation, with references to the American Revolution, British imperialism, and the broader consequences of colonization.

Step-by-step explanation:

Colonization and Imperialism

The passage suggests a historical perspective on the relationship between colonies and empires, specifically addressing the notion that small islands could be objects for kingdoms to protect, while a continent like America might be ill-suited for permanent governance by an island such as England.

This resonates with historic events such as the American Revolution, where the colonies sought to overthrow British rule, arguing that a vast continent should not be controlled by a distant island nation. The underlying argument posits that within the natural order, a satellite should not be larger than its primary planet, metaphorically criticizing England's control over America.

Historical instances like the Imperial British plan to unify the Anglo-Saxon race and expand its influence, or Japan's consideration of British imperialism as a model for its own expansion, align with the passage's theme of imperialism and colonization. The passage also indirectly references America's Declaration of Independence, which justified the colonies' separation from Britain due to a long train of abuses and usurpations. Furthermore, it touches on how power dynamics played roles in agreements such as the division of Samoan islands between Germany, Britain, and the United States.

Additionally, the passage reflects on notions of colonialism and empire-building, speculating on the potential greatness of a unified Anglo-Saxon empire, and criticizes past statesmen for their decisions that led to the loss of the American colonies. It also broadens the concept to include the effects of colonization on indigenous societies in North America before European arrival, challenging misconceptions about their political and historical complexities.