The practice of European countries establishing colonies or territories in other regions across the world for political, economic, or social control.
Related terms
Imperialism: A policy or ideology where stronger nations extend their influence over weaker nations for various reasons such as economic gain or geopolitical dominance.
Mercantilism: An economic theory prevalent during colonial times that advocated for exporting more than importing in order to accumulate wealth.
Colonization: The act or process of establishing settlements (colonies) by a foreign power in another territory.