Final answer:
European imperialism was driven largely by the need for money, resources, and global influence. Improved technology from the Industrial Revolution enabled swift and effective control over colonized regions, facilitating the expansion of wealth and political power for European nations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Imperialism and the Quest for Money
The imperialism practiced by European powers in places like Africa, Asia, and the Pacific was largely driven by the need for money and economic resources. During the age of imperialism, nations sought to expand their wealth and political influence across the globe. The Industrial Revolution necessitated access to cheap raw materials for factories, markets for finished goods, and strategically placed colonies to ensure a nation's competitiveness on the world stage.
To facilitate these needs, improved transportation, communication, weaponry, and medicine allowed European countries to establish control over various regions with ease. This control translated into direct exploitation of resources and the establishment of markets that benefited the imperial powers' economies. While there were instances of imperialism that did not yield significant profits, much of the expansion was driven by national competition and the desire to enhance economic and political standing.
Superior military technology also allowed European nations to swiftly conquer territories. The spread of imperialism was rapid due to these military advantages, alongside the imperial powers' intent to prevent other industrial nations from encroaching upon their colonies, which often led to further conquests and consolidation of power.