What rationale was often used to justify imperialism in the late 19th century?

The rationale that often justified imperialism in the late 19th century centered around the belief in racial superiority and the so-called "civilizing mission." Many proponents of imperialism argued that it was the duty of Western nations, particularly the United States and European powers, to spread their perceived superior culture, values, and governance to what they deemed "less civilized" regions of the world. This belief was rooted in social Darwinism, which applied the concept of "survival of the fittest" to human societies, suggesting that stronger nations had the right to dominate weaker ones.

Additionally, the idea of a civilizing mission was tied to Christianity, with many imperialists believing they were spreading not only their culture but also their faith to non-Western peoples. These beliefs created a moral imperative for expansion and justified foreign interventions and colonization as a benevolent act rather than an exploitative one.

While military dominance and economic reasons also played significant roles in justifying imperialism, the particular focus on racial hierarchy and the responsibility to civilize underprivileged nations was a defining narrative that resonated strongly during this period. This belief system helped to mask the underlying motives of economic exploitation and territorial ambition behind a veneer of moral duty.