What is imperialism?

Imperialism refers to a policy through which a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories. This can occur via diplomacy—negotiations and alliances—or through military force—conquering or exerting control over other regions. Historically, imperialism has been a significant aspect of global politics, particularly from the late 19th century into the early 20th century, when many nations sought to expand their empires for economic gain, strategic advantages, and national prestige.

The nature of imperialism often involved establishing colonies, exploiting resources, and influencing local governance to align with the imperial nation's interests. This definition captures the core characteristics of imperialism and reflects its impact on global dynamics, making it the most accurate choice in this context.

The other options do not encompass the essence of imperialism effectively. While promoting international peace is a desirable goal, it typically runs counter to the aggressive expansionist policies associated with imperialism. Economic isolationism focuses on limiting trade and interaction with other nations, which is the opposite of the expansion inherent in imperialism. Lastly, domestic cultural integration refers to processes within a country to unify different cultural groups, rather than extending influence abroad as imperialism does.