What were the motives for 19th century European imperialism?

The quest
for colonies in Africa and Asia was a major theme of European history of the 19th Century. The
primary motive for colonies was economic. Through the acquisition of colonies, the European
countries acquired a vast wealth of resources that could be utilized in their burgeoning
industries. These resources included metals, cotton, and gemstones. In Asia, silks and spices
were the major commodities that were traded. The colonies also supplied the mother countries
with an exclusive market to peddle their finished goods and establish exclusive trade
arrangements. The colonies also provided...

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