Imperialism
Imperialism is the policy of extending a nation's power and influence through diplomacy or military force. It has been practiced throughout history, from ancient Greece to modern times. Throughout this period, it has played an important role in shaping world events.
The most common form of imperialism involves one country taking control over another by establishing economic, political, and cultural dominance. This can be done through colonization or direct rule by foreign powers, such as Britain during its colonial era in India and Africa. Another form of imperialism is indirect rule, which allows a state to maintain some degree of autonomy while still being heavily influenced by outside forces, like the Chinese tributary system used for centuries before Western colonialism began.
Throughout much of its history, Europe was at the forefront of imperialist expansion due to its technological superiority over other parts of the world; however, this dynamic changed after World War II when decolonization occurred across many former European colonies, leading to increased independence around the globe. Imperialism continues today, but on a much smaller scale than in previous centuries, with nations attempting to extend their influence both politically and economically into areas that are not necessarily under their direct control (such as China's investments in African countries).