What does the term "colonialism" refer to?

The term "colonialism" refers specifically to the practice of acquiring and maintaining control over foreign territories. This concept is deeply rooted in historical contexts where powerful nations expanded their influence, often through military conquest or political domination, and established settlements in different regions, asserting control over local populations. Colonialism involves the direct governance of these territories and the imposition of the colonizer's cultural, economic, and political systems.

Other aspects of colonialism, such as economic exploitation or cultural exchanges, often occur as part of colonial endeavors but do not capture the full scope of what colonialism encompasses. The core of colonialism lies in the control and governance of foreign lands, creating a structured hierarchy that favors the colonizers while often suppressing indigenous ways of life. Understanding this central idea is crucial in analyzing historical events and their implications on global relations.