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Imperialism Books
Best books
Norman Angell
The Great Illusion A Study of the Relation of Military Power to National Advantage
"The Great Illusion" by Norman Angell is a book first published in 1909. Angell argues that modern war between industrial nations is economically futile because conquest brings no real gain. He contends that international economic interdependence makes armed conflict irrational and self-defeating. The book became a bestseller, spawning study groups and influencing military leaders. Yet World War I erupted just years later, leading many to dismiss Angell's ideas—though scholars later recognized the work as foundational to understanding international relations.
Mark Twain
To the Person Sitting in Darkness
"To the Person Sitting in Darkness" by Mark Twain is an essay published in February 1901. This scorching satire attacks Western imperialism as it unfolded in the Philippines, China, and South Africa. Twain targets political leaders and missionaries alike, exposing the brutal realities behind the rhetoric of spreading civilization and Christianity. The essay sparked fierce controversy, particularly over missionary conduct after the Boxer Rebellion. Written by one of America's most prominent anti-imperialist voices, this piece remains Twain's most famous critique of imperial expansion.
Rosa Luxemburg
The Accumulation of Capital
"The Accumulation of Capital" by Rosa Luxemburg is a book published in 1913. Luxemburg challenges Marx's theories by arguing that capitalism cannot survive in isolation. She contends that the system requires constant access to non-capitalist markets to realize surplus value and continue expanding. This need drives imperialist conquest of pre-capitalist regions. Luxemburg controversially predicts that once capitalism dominates the entire globe, its internal contradictions will cause inevitable collapse. The work sparked fierce debate within the socialist movement.
William Scott Ferguson
Greek Imperialism
"Greek Imperialism" by William Scott Ferguson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work is based on a series of lectures that explore the political evolution and imperial practices of ancient Greece, particularly highlighting the dynamics of city-states and their transitions into imperial entities. Ferguson examines the theoretical and practical aspects of governance from leading city-states such as Athens and Sparta through the rise and fall of empires like those of Alexander and the Hellenistic successors. The opening of the book introduces the thesis that the city-states of ancient Greece were inherently limited in their capacity for unification and growth due to their nature as unicellular organisms that could not easily form larger political entities. Ferguson defines key terms related to imperialism and sets the stage for a detailed examination of Greek imperial development, emphasizing the ongoing struggle against imperialism and the eventual emergence of political structures that integrated city-states into larger federations. He discusses various historical examples, hinting that despite their fierce independence, the Greek city-states ultimately yielded to the need for greater unity in the face of external threats, paving the way for the rise of empires that would eventually lead to the domination of Rome.
J. A. (John Adam) Cramb
The Origins and Destiny of Imperial Britain Nineteenth Century Europe
"The Origins and Destiny of Imperial Britain" by J. A. Cramb is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work reflects on the evolution of Britain's imperial identity, focusing specifically on the political, cultural, and religious ideals that shaped Britain's trajectory as an imperial power. It discusses the influences of the past on contemporary events, particularly in light of the South African War. The opening of the text establishes a profound exploration of the concept of imperialism, contrasting past and present imperial ideals. Cramb emphasizes the shift from a passive understanding of imperialism to a conscious acknowledgement of Britain's historical role as an empire, shaped by both triumphs and tragedies. He reflects on the complexities of identity and destiny that inform British imperialism while acknowledging the broader context of human history. Historical events and figures are employed to illustrate the growing consciousness surrounding Britain's imperial mission, suggesting that this understanding is essential for navigating the modern challenges of the empire.
Charles Francis Adams
"Imperialism" and "The Tracks of Our Forefathers"
"Imperialism" and "The Tracks of Our Forefathers" by Charles Francis Adams is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book reflects on the implications of American expansionism and imperialism following the Spanish-American War, particularly in relation to the nation's foundational principles and its treatment of colonized peoples. Adams critiques the idea of adopting Old World imperial practices and highlights the importance of adhering to American values of liberty and self-governance. In this work, Adams discusses the historical context of American expansion, drawing parallels between past actions against indigenous populations and the current political climate regarding territories gained from Spain. He emphasizes the moral obligations that come with imperialism, arguing against the imposition of governance on nations deemed "inferior." Through a series of historical examples and philosophical reflections, Adams advocates for a return to the foundational principles of freedom and equality as enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. His call to action is not just a critique of imperialism but also a quest to reaffirm and reclaim the core values that have defined the American experiment.
Walter E. (Walter Edward) Weyl
American World Policies
"American World Policies" by Walter E. Weyl is a political analysis written in the early 20th century. The work examines America's evolving role on the global stage in the context of World War I and the broader implications of imperialism and international relations. It explores themes of nationalism, pacifism, and America's ideological struggle between isolationism and engagement, emphasizing how these factors will shape future foreign policy. The opening of the text establishes a backdrop of shifting American sentiments following the outbreak of the Great War. It captures the disillusionment of Americans who had previously believed in their nation's isolation from European conflicts and explores the dilemma of whether to pursue aggressive nationalism or promote international cooperation for peace. Weyl outlines the deep economic and ideological currents driving these choices, highlighting the emergence of two distinct American identities—one idealistic and humanitarian, the other pragmatic and self-interested—suggesting that the nation must decide how to navigate the complexities of world affairs amidst the threats posed by modern warfare.
L. G. (Louis Georges) Desjardins
England, Canada and the Great War
"England, Canada and the Great War" by L. G. Desjardins is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on Canada's involvement in World War I, particularly emphasizing the importance of loyalty to the British Empire and refuting nationalist sentiments that opposed participation in the war. Desjardins, a Lieutenant-Colonel and former member of the Quebec legislature and Canadian Parliament, presents a passionate defense of the Allied cause, framing it as a struggle for civilization against tyranny. The opening of the book introduces the preface, where the author expresses his intent to provide an English edition of his earlier French work, responding to widespread demand. Desjardins reflects on the political landscape in Canada, noting the emergence of nationalist arguments against Britain's war efforts, particularly those propagated by Henri Bourassa. He outlines the pressing need for unity and support for the British Empire during this critical time and seeks to persuade his French Canadian compatriots of their duty to join in the fight for liberty and justice. This preface serves to set the stage for a deeper examination of the motives and reasons behind Canada’s participation in the war, as well as a critique of nationalist rhetoric that he views as detrimental to national unity and loyal citizenship.
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