Imperialism was important to the world because it was the foundation of globalization — extending authority over other nations and cultures. This was the result of attitudes of superiority and nations believing that they were improving the areas they controlled.
There are four recognized types of imperialism.
Colonial imperialism occurred when a country took over another nation on all levels from social to political.
Economic imperialism was when a country virtually functioned and stood on its own, but the imperial country ran its trade market.
Political imperialism occurred when the country that had been taken over had its own government, but these people acted only as the imperial power instructed them.
Sociocultural imperialism happened when the imperialist country tried to change the way the natives talked, dressed and even practiced their religions.
