Imperialism was a country’s means of expanding their power, which often resulted in negative effects for the countries deemed inferior. As time progressed, intentions seemed to sway from the original goal. Though coined as the White Man’s Burden, imperialism typically burdened the countries it “helped”; dominating those with weaker economies, exerting its power internationally, and causing harmful backlash from indigenous people.
British imperialism in India is a perfect example of how a powerful country was capable of bending another under its control. Great Britain created and maintained an expansive array of products, which helped form an economic backbone. Across its six countries were a range of goods, from butter and cheese to silver …show more content…
On the 10th of May in 1857, the Indian population began an uprising that would kick start the Indian Mutiny. Elisa Greathed recorded the events from her perspective, as she watched the flames and chaos grow. Her choice of vocabulary to describe the service prior directly contrasts the threatening aspect of the incoming attack. The attendees felt peaceful and safe as they assembled during that, as she described, “tranquil” Sunday. Once the sound of shots filled their surroundings, this was quickly cut short. The arrival of the chaotic mob forced the Greatheds, along with others, to quickly take refuge inside of the house. This point during Elisa’s experience greatly demonstrated the value of loyalty. As she had noted, “…had but one [servant] proved treacherous, our lives must have been sacrificed.” (“Modern History Sourcebook”) Furthermore, it was with the assistance of one of their servants that they were even able to escape with their lives. Golab Khan led the mob to a false hideout in the hay, which provided the others with enough time to exit the burning building. Even amidst the rubble and ruin of their home, Elisa Greathed took appreciation in the fact that she was able to survive. Now, from this perspective, the Indians could appear as the savages many indigenous people were claimed to be. However, one must view these events from both sides of the coin. This event in Meerut demonstrates how the anger caused in the natives harms the country’s citizens as well. The Indians endured British injustices and wrongs until they felt their only option was this violent demonstration. In that sense, imperialism inadvertently harmed all parties involved. Though Elisa Greathed and the others narrowly escaped with their lives, the bloodshed was far from
British imperialism in India is a perfect example of how a powerful country was capable of bending another under its control. Great Britain created and maintained an expansive array of products, which helped form an economic backbone. Across its six countries were a range of goods, from butter and cheese to silver …show more content…
On the 10th of May in 1857, the Indian population began an uprising that would kick start the Indian Mutiny. Elisa Greathed recorded the events from her perspective, as she watched the flames and chaos grow. Her choice of vocabulary to describe the service prior directly contrasts the threatening aspect of the incoming attack. The attendees felt peaceful and safe as they assembled during that, as she described, “tranquil” Sunday. Once the sound of shots filled their surroundings, this was quickly cut short. The arrival of the chaotic mob forced the Greatheds, along with others, to quickly take refuge inside of the house. This point during Elisa’s experience greatly demonstrated the value of loyalty. As she had noted, “…had but one [servant] proved treacherous, our lives must have been sacrificed.” (“Modern History Sourcebook”) Furthermore, it was with the assistance of one of their servants that they were even able to escape with their lives. Golab Khan led the mob to a false hideout in the hay, which provided the others with enough time to exit the burning building. Even amidst the rubble and ruin of their home, Elisa Greathed took appreciation in the fact that she was able to survive. Now, from this perspective, the Indians could appear as the savages many indigenous people were claimed to be. However, one must view these events from both sides of the coin. This event in Meerut demonstrates how the anger caused in the natives harms the country’s citizens as well. The Indians endured British injustices and wrongs until they felt their only option was this violent demonstration. In that sense, imperialism inadvertently harmed all parties involved. Though Elisa Greathed and the others narrowly escaped with their lives, the bloodshed was far from