Discussion Topic
Over the centuries, people have formed nations that have different types of
governments and beliefs. As nations expand, they often take over the land of other
people. The new land gives these nations access to valuable resources and trading
routes. This expansion can result in one group of people forming a vast empire.
Look back at what you know about the patterns of past colonization and empire
formation, and address these questions:
. Can one nation or empire take over another nation without oppressing others?
• Has imperialism become more or less oppressive as the world has become more
industrialized?
.
• Is it possible in an era of many democratic societies and advanced technology for
nations to gain power without oppressing others? That is, can nations avoid denying
people their rights? Explain.
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