Contextualization

Imperialism, a term often associated with the great European powers of the 19th and 20th centuries, is a significant aspect of global history. It is a fundamental concept to understand the roots of many modern geopolitical situations and the global power structures that exist today.

The project focuses on the era of 'New Imperialism' which began roughly in the mid-19th century and continued into the early 20th century. This phase of imperialism was marked by the scramble for overseas territories, economic exploitation, and the establishment of colonial rule by European powers.

Imperialism was driven by various factors including economic interests, national competition, the desire for power and prestige, and cultural and racial ideologies. The quest for resources, markets, and strategic locations drove European powers to expand their empires across the globe.

Importance

Understanding the phenomenon of imperialism is crucial for comprehending today's global socio-economic and political landscape. Many of the conflicts and tensions that exist today can be traced back to the legacy of imperialism.

The economic, political, and social impacts of imperialism were profound. It led to the exploitation of resources and labor in colonies, the imposition of European systems of governance and law, and the spread of Western culture and ideas. These impacts continue to shape the societies and economies of former colonies.

Imperialism also had a profound effect on the European powers themselves. It fueled national rivalries and contributed to the outbreak of the First World War. It also sparked debates about race, culture, and the nature of civilization that continue to resonate in modern society.

Reliable Resources

1. BBC Bitesize - What was the New Imperialism?
2. Khan Academy - The Age of Imperialism
3. Crash Course World History - Imperialism
4. Stanford History Education Group - Imperialism Case Studies
5. National Geographic - A Brief History of European Colonization
6. Library of Congress - The World of 1898: The Spanish American War

Practical Activity

Activity Title: "Imperialism: The Game of Exploration and Exploitation"

Objective of the Project

The main goal of this project is to help students understand the motives, methods, and effects of European imperialism during the era of 'New Imperialism'. Additionally, it aims to develop students' research, analysis, and teamwork skills.

Description of the Project

Students will form groups of 3 to 5 members and will create a board game that simulates the period of European imperialism (mid-19th to early 20th century). The game should incorporate elements that reflect the motives, methods, and impacts of imperialism.

The game should be designed to be both educational and fun, enabling players to learn about key historical events, explore different perspectives, and make strategic decisions. The game should also include a set of rules, a game board, game pieces, event cards, and a guidebook.

The project will be carried out in five stages over a period of one month. These stages include:

1. Research and Planning (1 week): Students will conduct research on European imperialism, focusing on the motives, methods, and impacts. They will also begin planning the design and structure of their game.

2. Game Design and Development (1 week): Students will design their game, including the game board, game pieces, event cards, and rules. They will also start developing these elements.

3. Testing and Refinement (1 week): Students will playtest their game, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary changes to the design and rules.

4. Finalization and Documentation (1 day): Students will finalize their game, prepare the guidebook, and document the entire process including research, design choices, and final gameplay.

5. Presentation (1 day): Each group will present their game, explaining its components, gameplay, and the historical concepts it represents.

Necessary Materials

• Books, internet access, and other resources for research.
• Art supplies for game design (e.g., paper, markers, colored pencils, etc.).
• Materials for creating game components (e.g., cardboard, scissors, glue, etc.).

Detailed Step-by-Step for Carrying Out the Activity

1. Form Groups and Assign Roles: Students will form groups of 3 to 5 members. Each member will be assigned a role: Researcher, Game Designer, Artist, Writer, and Presenter.

2. Research and Planning: Each group will conduct research on European imperialism, focusing on the motives, methods, and impacts. They will also begin planning the design and structure of their game.

3. Game Design and Development: Based on their research and planning, students will design their game, including the game board, game pieces, event cards, and rules. They will also start developing these elements.

4. Testing and Refinement: Students will playtest their game, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary changes to the design and rules.

5. Finalization and Documentation: Students will finalize their game, prepare the guidebook, and document the entire process including research, design choices, and final gameplay.

6. Presentation: Each group will present their game, explaining its components, gameplay, and the historical concepts it represents.

Project Deliveries

At the end of the project, each group will submit:

1. The Board Game: This includes the game board, game pieces, event cards, and rules.

2. The Guidebook: A comprehensive guide to the game, explaining its components, rules, and historical significance.

3. The Documentation: A detailed document (in the form of a report) that includes:

   • Introduction: Contextualize the theme of imperialism, its relevance, and real-world application.

   • Development: Detail the theory behind European imperialism, explain the activity in detail, indicate the methodology used, and present and discuss the obtained results.

   • Conclusion: Reflect on the learnings obtained, the skills developed, and the conclusions drawn about the project.

   • Bibliography: Indicate all the sources relied on to work on the project such as books, web pages, videos, etc.

The delivery of the project will be evaluated considering the following criteria:

• Demonstration of Understanding: The game and the guidebook should clearly demonstrate the group's understanding of the motives, methods, and impacts of European imperialism.

• Originality and Creativity: The game should be original and creative, incorporating innovative ideas and approaches to representing historical events and concepts.

• Collaboration and Communication: The project documentation should reflect effective collaboration and communication within the group, highlighting how each member contributed to the project.

• Presentation Skills: The group's presentation should be clear, engaging, and well-organized, effectively explaining the game and its historical context to the class.