White Man’s Burden

Definition

The term 'White Man's Burden' refers to the notion that it is the moral obligation of Western colonial powers to civilize and uplift non-Western societies. This concept emerged during the era of imperialism, where it was used to justify the expansion of empires under the guise of benevolence and the supposed responsibility to improve the lives of 'inferior' races, connecting deeply with ideas from Darwinism and Social Darwinism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'White Man's Burden' was popularized by Rudyard Kipling in his poem written in 1899, calling for the U.S. to take up colonial responsibilities.
2. This concept was often used to rationalize European colonization efforts in Africa and Asia, portraying imperialism as a benevolent act.
3. It reinforced racial hierarchies, suggesting that Western civilization was superior and that it was their duty to dominate less 'civilized' cultures.
4. The idea supported policies that led to significant social and economic changes in colonized countries, often with devastating consequences for local populations.
5. Critics of the 'White Man's Burden' argue that it masked the exploitative nature of imperialism, as it prioritized Western interests over the actual needs and rights of colonized peoples.

Review Questions

• How did the 'White Man's Burden' influence the justification for imperialism during the late 19th century?
  • 'White Man's Burden' provided a moral rationale for imperialism, suggesting that it was the duty of Western nations to civilize 'inferior' races. This narrative painted colonization as a selfless act aimed at improving the lives of others, which allowed imperial powers to pursue their economic and political interests under the guise of philanthropy. By framing imperialism in such a light, it gained broader acceptance among both politicians and the public.
• Evaluate how Social Darwinism intertwined with the concept of 'White Man's Burden' during the age of imperialism.
  • 'White Man's Burden' was heavily influenced by Social Darwinism, which argued that certain races were naturally superior and more evolved than others. This connection reinforced justifications for colonial rule, as proponents believed that they were not only entitled but obligated to rule over and 'improve' less developed societies. As a result, this ideology contributed to widespread acceptance of racist policies and practices in colonial governance.
• Analyze the long-term effects of the 'White Man's Burden' on formerly colonized countries and their post-colonial identities.
  • The legacy of 'White Man's Burden' has had profound long-term effects on formerly colonized nations. It created deep-seated issues regarding identity, governance, and socio-economic structures as local cultures were often undermined in favor of Western ideals. Post-colonial societies grapple with the repercussions of imposed systems that may not align with their historical contexts. The narrative shaped by this ideology can still be seen in contemporary discussions about globalization, cultural exchange, and neocolonialism, as nations seek to reclaim their identities while navigating a world still influenced by colonial legacies.

Related terms

Imperialism: A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means over other nations or territories.

Social Darwinism: A social theory that applied Darwin's ideas of natural selection to human societies, suggesting that some races were superior to others and justified social inequality.

Civilizing Mission: The belief that European nations had a duty to educate and civilize non-European peoples, often associated with imperialistic policies.