Imperialism - Revision history

PuzzledFox99 at 13:46, 23 July 2026

2026-07-23T13:46:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:46, 23 July 2026
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	At the time of his writing, imperialism was not yet a word in common use (not until the 1870s) however, policies of imperialism were already happening around the world—especially at hands of the British Empire in Africa.		At the time of his writing, imperialism was not yet a word in common use (not until the 1870s) however, policies of imperialism were already happening around the world—especially at hands of the British Empire in Africa.

	Given that imperialism is, (according to Lenin) the highest stage of capitalism, one tendency of imperialism is to export the class conflict of a nation to foreign lands. Thus, the British nation, in order to solve its problem of unemployment and food scarcity along a capitalist basis (without socialism; redistribution of wealth and power to the commoners through social ownership), had to find new lands to settle the unemployed.		Given that imperialism is, according to Lenin, the highest stage of capitalism, one tendency of imperialism is to export the class conflict of a nation to foreign lands. Thus, the British nation, in order to solve its problem of unemployment and food scarcity along a capitalist basis (without socialism; redistribution of wealth and power to the commoners through social ownership), had to find new lands to settle the unemployed.

	{{Quote\|"In order to save the forty million inhabitants of the United Kingdom from a bloody civil war, our colonial statesmen must acquire new lands for settling the surplus population of this country, to provide new markets. ... The Empire, as I have always said, is a bread and butter question."\|[[Cecil Rhodes]], British imperialist, as quoted in [[Lenin]]'s [[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism]]}}		{{Quote\|"In order to save the forty million inhabitants of the United Kingdom from a bloody civil war, our colonial statesmen must acquire new lands for settling the surplus population of this country, to provide new markets. ... The Empire, as I have always said, is a bread and butter question."\|[[Cecil Rhodes]], British imperialist, as quoted in [[Lenin]]'s [[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism]]}}

			=== Vladimir Lenin ===

	== Later theoreticians (post-1945) ==		== Later theoreticians (post-1945) ==

	=== Michael Parenti ===		=== Michael Parenti ===
	[[Michael Parenti]] described several examples of imperialism in [[Library:Against Empire\|Against Empire]].		[[Michael Parenti]] described several examples of imperialism in ''[[Library:Against Empire\|Against Empire]]''.
	{{Quote\|By "imperialism" I mean the process whereby the dominant politico-economic interests of one nation expropriate for their own enrichment the land, labor, raw materials, and markets of another people.		{{Quote\|By "imperialism" I mean the process whereby the dominant politico-economic interests of one nation expropriate for their own enrichment the land, labor, raw materials, and markets of another people.

172.97.136.106: changed caption to be more accurate

2026-01-16T02:10:56Z

changed caption to be more accurate

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:10, 16 January 2026
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	[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]		[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with most imperialist countries in blue]]
	'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the late 1800s to early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref> It involves the merger of banking capital with industrial capital to create the greater finance capital and a fundamental distinguishing character of export of [[capital]] instead of export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].		'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the late 1800s to early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref> It involves the merger of banking capital with industrial capital to create the greater finance capital and a fundamental distinguishing character of export of [[capital]] instead of export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].

Comrade Kiwi at 14:04, 30 September 2025

2025-09-30T14:04:20Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:04, 30 September 2025
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	The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.		The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.

	Imperialism is inevitable under Capitalism because Capitalism is based on the premise of infinite growth in a finite system. When capitalists first run into the limits of their own country, they will eventually be forced to expand their markets, resources, and influence into other countries and territories in order to continue increasing their profits. Not only that, but the [[tendency of the rate of profit to fall]] ensures that with their own ~~markets~~ profit yields are bound to decrease and in order offset that outwards expansionism becomes a material necessity rather than whim.		Imperialism is inevitable under Capitalism because Capitalism is based on the premise of infinite growth in a finite system. When capitalists first run into the limits of their own country, they will eventually be forced to expand their markets, resources, and influence into other countries and territories in order to continue increasing their profits. Not only that, but the [[tendency of the rate of profit to fall]] ensures that with their own market's profit yields are bound to decrease and in order to offset that, outwards expansionism and conquest of foreign markets becomes a material necessity rather than whim.

	Furthermore, the capitalists can exploit and oppress the workers of other nations much more easily than they can in their own. For example, by moving manufacturing jobs from the imperialist countries to the imperialized countries where wages are lower, and environmental protections and labour rights are much weaker -- if they exist at all -- they can reduce costs which increases profits.		Furthermore, the capitalists can exploit and oppress the workers of other nations much more easily than they can in their own. For example, by moving manufacturing jobs from the imperialist countries to the imperialized countries where wages are lower, and environmental protections and labour rights are much weaker -- if they exist at all -- they can reduce costs which increases profits.

Comrade Kiwi: Elaborated just a little bit on the merger of bank capital and industrial capital + export of capital. Connected TRPF in the core to imperialism, and expanded the Chinese "Imperialism" debunking section quite a bit.

2025-09-30T14:01:45Z

Elaborated just a little bit on the merger of bank capital and industrial capital + export of capital. Connected TRPF in the core to imperialism, and expanded the Chinese "Imperialism" debunking section quite a bit.

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:01, 30 September 2025
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	[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]		[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]
	'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the late 1800s to early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>		'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the late 1800s to early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref> It involves the merger of banking capital with industrial capital to create the greater finance capital and a fundamental distinguishing character of export of [[capital]] instead of export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].

	It is a global system of economic, political, and military domination, with the imperialist powers using a variety of means, including economic sanctions, military interventions, and cultural influence to maintain their dominance over other nations.		It is a global system of economic, political, and military domination, with the imperialist powers using a variety of means, including economic sanctions, military interventions, and cultural influence to maintain their dominance over other nations.

	[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a [[Marxism\|Marxist]] analysis of imperialism in his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, expanding on the foundation of the earlier work of [[J. A. Hobson\|John A. Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Lenin wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}		[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a [[Marxism\|Marxist]] analysis of imperialism in his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, expanding on the foundation of the earlier work of [[J. A. Hobson\|John A. Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Lenin wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}
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	The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.		The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.

	Imperialism is inevitable under Capitalism because Capitalism is based on the premise of infinite growth in a finite system. When capitalists first run into the limits of their own country, they will eventually be forced to expand their markets, resources, and influence into other countries and territories in order to continue increasing their profits.		Imperialism is inevitable under Capitalism because Capitalism is based on the premise of infinite growth in a finite system. When capitalists first run into the limits of their own country, they will eventually be forced to expand their markets, resources, and influence into other countries and territories in order to continue increasing their profits. Not only that, but the [[tendency of the rate of profit to fall]] ensures that with their own markets profit yields are bound to decrease and in order offset that outwards expansionism becomes a material necessity rather than whim.

	Furthermore, the capitalists can exploit and oppress the workers of other nations much more easily than they can in their own. For example, by moving manufacturing jobs from the imperialist countries to the imperialized countries where wages are lower, and environmental protections and labour rights are much weaker -- if they exist at all -- they can reduce costs which increases profits.		Furthermore, the capitalists can exploit and oppress the workers of other nations much more easily than they can in their own. For example, by moving manufacturing jobs from the imperialist countries to the imperialized countries where wages are lower, and environmental protections and labour rights are much weaker -- if they exist at all -- they can reduce costs which increases profits.
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	== Mistranslation of "highest stage" ==		== Mistranslation of "highest stage" ==

	In his [[Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Imperialism,_the_highest_stage_of_capitalism\|book on Imperialism]], Lenin is often translated as having said that imperialism is "the highest stage" of capitalism. In the original Russian version, Lenin is stating that imperialism is the 'latest' or 'most recent' or contemporary stage, rather than definitively saying that it is the ''final stage''.		In his [[Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Imperialism,_the_highest_stage_of_capitalism\|book on Imperialism]], Lenin is often translated as having said that imperialism is "the highest stage" of capitalism. In the original Russian version, Lenin is stating that imperialism is the 'latest' or 'most recent' or contemporary stage, rather than definitively saying that it is the ''final stage''.

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	In modern times, some accuse China of being imperialist, mainly in [[Africa]]. These people again use the liberal definition of imperialism and can be ignored in much the same way.		In modern times, some accuse China of being imperialist, mainly in [[Africa]]. These people again use the liberal definition of imperialism and can be ignored in much the same way.

	With its [[Belt and Road Initiative]], China does not practice the same harsh policies as the [[IMF]] (namely, forcing austerity upon loan recipients) and that is why they are being favored by more and more countries, leading to a disinformation campaign by the imperial core to help drive popular support from the B&R and back towards the IMF. Famously, Chinese loans pay for infrastructure (needed for development), are often forgiven <ref>{{Web citation\|author=Jevans Nyablage\|newspaper=[[South China Morning Post]]\|title=China to forgive interest-free loans to Africa that are coming due, Xi Jinping says\|date=2020-06-18T03:43\|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/world/africa/article/3089492/china-forgive-interest-free-loans-africa-are-coming-due-xi}}</ref>, and there are no policies required to get such a loan.		With its [[Belt and Road Initiative]], China does not practice the same harsh policies as the [[IMF]] (namely, forcing austerity upon loan recipients) and that is why they are being favored by more and more countries, leading to a disinformation campaign by the imperial core to help drive popular support from the B&R and back towards the IMF. Famously, Chinese loans pay for infrastructure (needed for development), are often forgiven and restructured<ref>{{Web citation\|author=Jevans Nyablage\|newspaper=[[South China Morning Post]]\|title=China to forgive interest-free loans to Africa that are coming due, Xi Jinping says\|date=2020-06-18T03:43\|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/world/africa/article/3089492/china-forgive-interest-free-loans-africa-are-coming-due-xi}}</ref>, and there are no policies required to get such a loan. Where the West builds economic dependency the PRC builds mutual economic cooperation.<blockquote>If any debtors encounter difficulties to pay on time, there may be tailored plans including rescheduling… adding grants to help bring projects back to life, conducting debt-equity swaps, or hiring Chinese firms to assist operations. Just like repairing and enhancing a patient’s hemopoietic system, adopting such measures to help the projects get back on track and gain profit has advantages over simply offering write-offs which may only solve issues on the surface and are unsustainable<ref name=":1">{{Web citation\|author=Kevin Acker, Deborah Brautigam, and
			Yufan Huang\|newspaper=China Africa Research
			Initiative, School of Advanced International Studies, Johns Hopkins University,
			Washington, DC.\|title=Debt Relief with Chinese Characteristics\|url=http://www.sais-cari.org/publications.\|quote=...China has not applied the kinds of highly contested economic austerity and structural adjustment conditions imposed by the HIPC process. Yet, there is always one political condition: countries need to have diplomatic relations with Beijing (instead of Taipei).}}</ref></blockquote>Moreover, unlike the IMF and Western international financial institutions the PRC does not enforce austerity upon nations with heavy debt to it. Instead only conditioning it on political recognition of the Chinese state rather than the forward base of Western Imperialism in East Asia, [[Taiwan Province\|Taiwan]].<blockquote>...China has not applied the kinds of highly contested economic austerity and structural adjustment conditions imposed by the HIPC (Heavily Indebted Poor Countries) process. Yet, there is always one political condition: countries need to have diplomatic relations with Beijing (instead of Taipei).<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>The Chinese build economic cooperation and strength against the imperial core (because that is in the material interest of the Chinese state) in contrast the West builds economic dependency and imperialist control.

	=== Russian "imperialism" ===		=== Russian "imperialism" ===

Charhapiti: /* Theoretical overview */

2025-09-15T19:58:48Z

Theoretical overview

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:58, 15 September 2025
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	* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].		* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].
	* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].		* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].
	* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]])~~, also known as~~ [[multinational corporations]].		* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]]) and [[multinational corporations]].
	* The domination and exploitation of other countries by militaristic imperialist powers, now through neocolonialism.		* The domination and exploitation of other countries by militaristic imperialist powers, now through neocolonialism.
	* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:		* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:

Charhapiti at 19:41, 15 September 2025

2025-09-15T19:41:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:41, 15 September 2025
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	[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]		[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]
	'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>		'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the late 1800s to early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>

	It is a global system of economic, political, and military domination, with the imperialist powers using a variety of means, including economic sanctions, military interventions, and cultural influence to maintain their dominance over other nations.		It is a global system of economic, political, and military domination, with the imperialist powers using a variety of means, including economic sanctions, military interventions, and cultural influence to maintain their dominance over other nations.

Charhapiti at 19:40, 15 September 2025

2025-09-15T19:40:48Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:40, 15 September 2025
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	[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]		[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]
	'''Imperialism''' is the ~~highest stage~~ of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]], in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the ~~prevalent~~ economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>		'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>

			It is a global system of economic, political, and military domination, with the imperialist powers using a variety of means, including economic sanctions, military interventions, and cultural influence to maintain their dominance over other nations.

	[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a [[Marxism\|Marxist]] analysis of imperialism in his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, expanding on the foundation of the earlier work of [[J. A. Hobson\|John A. Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Lenin wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}		[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a [[Marxism\|Marxist]] analysis of imperialism in his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, expanding on the foundation of the earlier work of [[J. A. Hobson\|John A. Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Lenin wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}
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	The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.		The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.

			Imperialism is inevitable under Capitalism because Capitalism is based on the premise of infinite growth in a finite system. When capitalists first run into the limits of their own country, they will eventually be forced to expand their markets, resources, and influence into other countries and territories in order to continue increasing their profits.

			Furthermore, the capitalists can exploit and oppress the workers of other nations much more easily than they can in their own. For example, by moving manufacturing jobs from the imperialist countries to the imperialized countries where wages are lower, and environmental protections and labour rights are much weaker -- if they exist at all -- they can reduce costs which increases profits.

			When the capitalists run into limits again, and are unable to continue increasing their profits -- even by exploiting the periphery -- they will inevitably turn Imperialism inwards and further oppress and exploit workers domestically. This is the origin of [[Fascism]].

			== Mistranslation of "highest stage" ==

			In his [[Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Imperialism,_the_highest_stage_of_capitalism\|book on Imperialism]], Lenin is often translated as having said that imperialism is "the highest stage" of capitalism. In the original Russian version, Lenin is stating that imperialism is the 'latest' or 'most recent' or contemporary stage, rather than definitively saying that it is the ''final stage''.

	== Theoretical overview ==		== Theoretical overview ==
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	* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].		* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].
	* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].		* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].
	* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]]).		* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]]), also known as [[multinational corporations]].
			* The domination and exploitation of other countries by militaristic imperialist powers, now through neocolonialism.
	* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:		* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:

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2025-02-13T22:36:41Z

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← Older revision		Revision as of 13:50, 10 October 2024
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	'''Imperialism''' is the highest stage of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]], in which monopolies and cartels become the prevalent economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>		'''Imperialism''' is the highest stage of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]], in which monopolies and cartels become the prevalent economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>

	[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a Marxist analysis of imperialism with the publishing of his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, most notably on the foundation of the earlier work of John A. [[J. A. Hobson\|Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Beginning with the first paragraph of [[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|his pamphlet]], [[Vladimir Lenin]] wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}		[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a Marxist analysis of imperialism with the publishing of his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, most notably on the foundation of the earlier work of John A. [[J. A. Hobson\|Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Beginning with the first paragraph of [[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|his pamphlet]], [[Vladimir Lenin]] wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}
	</ref>		</ref>

	Multiple theorists have updated, deepened, developed or critically engaged with the classical analysis of Imperialism. For example, [[Kwame Nkrumah]], who wrote [[Library:Neocolonialism,_the_Last_Stage_of_Imperialism]]. Most recently, the concept of [[neoimperialism]] has emerged in the work of [[Cheng Enfu]].		Multiple theorists have updated, deepened, developed or critically engaged with the classical analysis of Imperialism. For example, [[Kwame Nkrumah]], who wrote [[Library:Neocolonialism,_the_Last_Stage_of_Imperialism\|Neocolonialism, the Last Stage of Imperialism]]. Most recently, the concept of [[neoimperialism]] has emerged in the work of [[Cheng Enfu]].

	The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.		The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.

Charhapiti at 06:10, 7 October 2024

2024-10-07T06:10:58Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:10, 7 October 2024
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	</ref>		</ref>

	Multiple theorists have updated, deepened, developed or critically engaged with the classical analysis of Imperialism. For example, [[Kwame Nkrumah]], who wrote [[Library:~~Neo-Colonialism~~, ~~The Last Stage of Imperialism~~]]. Most recently, the concept of [[neoimperialism]] has emerged in the work of [[Cheng Enfu]].		Multiple theorists have updated, deepened, developed or critically engaged with the classical analysis of Imperialism. For example, [[Kwame Nkrumah]], who wrote [[Library:Neocolonialism,_the_Last_Stage_of_Imperialism]]. Most recently, the concept of [[neoimperialism]] has emerged in the work of [[Cheng Enfu]].

	The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.		The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:58, 15 September 2025
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	* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].		* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].
	* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].		* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].
	* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]])~~, also known as~~ [[multinational corporations]].		* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]]) and [[multinational corporations]].
	* The domination and exploitation of other countries by militaristic imperialist powers, now through neocolonialism.		* The domination and exploitation of other countries by militaristic imperialist powers, now through neocolonialism.
	* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:		* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:40, 15 September 2025
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	[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]		[[File:1920px-North South divide.svg.png\|thumb\|World map with imperialist countries in blue]]
	'''Imperialism''' is the ~~highest stage~~ of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]], in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the ~~prevalent~~ economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>		'''Imperialism''' is the most recent evolution of the [[capitalist]] [[mode of production]] that began in the early 1900s, in which [[Monopoly\|monopolies]] and [[Cartel\|cartels]] become the dominant economic force of society.<ref name=":0">{{Citation\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 1: Concentration of production and monopolies\|mia=https://www.marxists.org/archive/lenin/works/1916/imp-hsc/index.htm\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=Thus, the principal stages in the history of monopolies are the following: (1) 1860-70, the highest stage, the apex of development of free competition; monopoly is in the barely discernible, embryonic stage. (2) After the crisis of 1873, a lengthy period of development of cartels; but they are still the exception. They are not yet durable. They are still a transitory phenomenon. (3) The boom at the end of the nineteenth century and the crisis of 1900-03. Cartels become one of the foundations of the whole of economic life. Capitalism has been transformed into imperialism.}}</ref>

			It is a global system of economic, political, and military domination, with the imperialist powers using a variety of means, including economic sanctions, military interventions, and cultural influence to maintain their dominance over other nations.

	[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a [[Marxism\|Marxist]] analysis of imperialism in his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, expanding on the foundation of the earlier work of [[J. A. Hobson\|John A. Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Lenin wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}		[[Vladimir Lenin\|Lenin]] synthesized a [[Marxism\|Marxist]] analysis of imperialism in his pamphlet ''Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism'' in 1916, expanding on the foundation of the earlier work of [[J. A. Hobson\|John A. Hobson]] entitled ''Imperialism: A Study''. Lenin wrote that rapid growth of industry and concentration of production in growing enterprises represent the key characteristic of capitalism.<ref name=":0" /> He summarized it in one phrase as "the monopoly stage of capitalism".<ref>{{Citation\|title=[[Library:Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism]]\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|quote=If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.}}
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	The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.		The development of imperialism in the global economy also reinforces a dialectical relationship between core-periphery countries, mainly [[dependency]] and subordination of [[Underdevelopment\|underdeveloped countries]] to imperialist economies. In conjunction with these developments, new theoretical models were proposed to understand developments, such as dependency theory and world-systems theory.

			Imperialism is inevitable under Capitalism because Capitalism is based on the premise of infinite growth in a finite system. When capitalists first run into the limits of their own country, they will eventually be forced to expand their markets, resources, and influence into other countries and territories in order to continue increasing their profits.

			Furthermore, the capitalists can exploit and oppress the workers of other nations much more easily than they can in their own. For example, by moving manufacturing jobs from the imperialist countries to the imperialized countries where wages are lower, and environmental protections and labour rights are much weaker -- if they exist at all -- they can reduce costs which increases profits.

			When the capitalists run into limits again, and are unable to continue increasing their profits -- even by exploiting the periphery -- they will inevitably turn Imperialism inwards and further oppress and exploit workers domestically. This is the origin of [[Fascism]].

			== Mistranslation of "highest stage" ==

			In his [[Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Imperialism,_the_highest_stage_of_capitalism\|book on Imperialism]], Lenin is often translated as having said that imperialism is "the highest stage" of capitalism. In the original Russian version, Lenin is stating that imperialism is the 'latest' or 'most recent' or contemporary stage, rather than definitively saying that it is the ''final stage''.

	== Theoretical overview ==		== Theoretical overview ==
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	* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].		* The merging of bank [[capital]] with industrial capital into finance capital controlled by a [[Dictatorship of the bourgeoisie\|financial oligarchy]].
	* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].		* The export of capital as distinguished from the simple export of [[Commodity\|commodities]].
	* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]]).		* The formation of international monopolist capitalist associations ([[Cartel\|cartels]]), also known as [[multinational corporations]].
			* The domination and exploitation of other countries by militaristic imperialist powers, now through neocolonialism.
	* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features:		* The territorial division of the whole world among the biggest capitalist powers.<ref>{{Citation\|author=[[Vladimir Lenin]]\|title=Imperialism, the highest stage of capitalism\|chapter=Chapter 7: Imperialism as a special stage of capitalism\|quote=But very brief definitions, although convenient, for they sum up the main points, are nevertheless inadequate, since we have to deduce from them some especially important features of the phenomenon that has to be defined. And so, without forgetting the conditional and relative value of all definitions in general, which can never embrace all the concatenations of a phenomenon in its full development, we must give a definition of imperialism that will include the following five of its basic features: