A colonial power refers to a country that extends its political, economic, and military control over other regions or territories outside its own borders. This domination often involves establishing settlements, exploiting resources, imposing cultural norms/values on the colonized people.
Related terms
Imperialism: Imperialism is an ideology or policy pursued by powerful nations seeking to extend their influence over weaker territories by forceful means such as colonization.
Decolonization: Decolonization refers to the process by which previously colonized nations or regions gain independence and reestablish self-governance, often through political movements, negotiations, or armed struggle.
Cultural Assimilation: Cultural assimilation occurs when a dominant culture imposes its customs, language, values, and beliefs on a subjugated group or population. This process often happens under colonial powers seeking to eradicate indigenous cultures.