White man's burden

Definition

The term 'white man's burden' refers to the 19th-century belief that it was the responsibility of Western nations, particularly those of European descent, to govern and impart their civilization to non-Western peoples. This ideology was often used to justify imperialism, suggesting that colonial powers had a moral obligation to uplift so-called 'backward' societies, even at the cost of exploiting their resources and people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'white man's burden' was popularized by Rudyard Kipling's poem in 1899, urging the U.S. to take up the responsibility of imperialism.
2. This ideology played a crucial role in justifying the expansion of empires by framing colonization as a benevolent act rather than outright exploitation.
3. Supporters of the white man's burden argued that Western education, religion, and governance were necessary for the upliftment of colonized peoples.
4. Critics pointed out that this belief was rooted in racism and ethnocentrism, undermining the autonomy and dignity of indigenous cultures.
5. The concept has been widely debated in post-colonial studies, highlighting its role in perpetuating stereotypes and legitimizing imperialistic practices.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of the white man's burden shape Western attitudes toward imperialism in the late 19th century?
  • The concept of the white man's burden significantly shaped Western attitudes toward imperialism by framing it as a moral obligation. Many believed that they were responsible for 'civilizing' non-Western societies, which justified their expansionist policies. This mindset not only fostered support for colonial endeavors but also led to widespread acceptance of racial hierarchies, where Western nations viewed themselves as superior and destined to lead other cultures.
• Analyze the implications of the white man's burden on both the colonizers and the colonized during the Age of Exploration.
  • The white man's burden had profound implications for both colonizers and the colonized. For colonizers, it provided a moral justification for their actions, allowing them to rationalize exploitation and subjugation under the guise of benevolence. Conversely, for the colonized populations, this ideology often resulted in cultural erasure, forced assimilation, and resistance against imposed governance, leading to long-lasting impacts on their societies. The narrative created by this concept contributed to systemic inequalities that persisted even after decolonization.
• Evaluate how the legacy of the white man's burden continues to influence contemporary discussions about globalization and cultural exchange.
  • The legacy of the white man's burden continues to influence contemporary discussions about globalization and cultural exchange by perpetuating notions of cultural superiority and paternalism. Even today, there are debates around whether Western nations approach international aid and development with an underlying attitude that assumes they know what is best for other cultures. This can lead to tensions in global interactions where local traditions are disregarded in favor of imposed Western norms, highlighting the need for a more equitable dialogue that respects cultural differences rather than viewing them through a lens of superiority.

Related terms

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

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring and maintaining control over foreign lands and peoples, often involving settlement and exploitation of resources.

Cultural Hegemony: The dominance of one cultural group over others, which can manifest in the promotion of values and norms that justify the superiority of that group.