Early modern European imperialism was seaborne, monopoly-seeking mercantilism enforced by arms
Evidence
The period from the late Middle Ages to the post-Enlightenment era is a transitional one characterized by elements from both ages. Known as the early modern era, it runs roughly from 1500 to 1800 CE. The period marked the arrival of several European imperial powers on the global stage and rivalry among them for domination over world trade. Mercantilism characterized the era’s economic logic. The mercantilist system was based on a drive to establish lucrative trade and to ensure profits through a monopoly enforced by arms and military might. — Deepa Kumar, Islamophobia and the Politics of Empire, 106
Categorization
- XREF: connects to: Mercantile empires fused monarchs and merchants in armed trade monopolies; Europe achieved hegemony only through mercantile imperialism and capitalism, not inherent superiority — Deepa Kumar, Islamophobia and the Politics of…, 103; European hegemony resulted from mercantile capitalism, not inherent cultural superiority (+2 more)
Broader Connections
- European hegemony resulted from mercantile capitalism, not inherent cultural superiority
#corroborates(0.85) - European hegemony resulted from economic and imperial factors, not inherent Western superiority
#corroborates(0.85) — Deepa Kumar, Islamophobia and the Politics of Empire, 103 - Imperialism’s global politics supplied the preconditions for totalitarian rule
#qualifies(0.70)