In what respects were they active agents in the historical process rather than simply victims of European actions?

Asians, Africans, and Native Americans experienced early modern European expansion in different ways. Based on
Chapters 13 and 14, how would you describe and explain those differences? In what respects were they active agents in the
historical process rather than simply victims of European actions?

Answer & Explanation

Solved by verified expert

It is important to recognize that people from non-European societies were not simply victims of European actions, but also active agents in the historical process.

Throughout history, individuals and groups from non-European societies have demonstrated agency in responding to and shaping the world around them. They have engaged in a variety of strategies to assert their power and resist colonialism and imperialism, including armed resistance, cultural resistance, negotiation, and adaptation.

For example, during the colonial period, African societies such as the Asante, Zulu, and Dahomey kingdoms, among others, developed

Looking for a similar assignment?

Let Us write for you! We offer custom paper writing services

Place your order

Step-by-step explanation

military strategies to resist European colonization. In India, leaders such as Gandhi led nonviolent protests against British colonialism, while other groups like the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League worked to negotiate for greater autonomy and eventually independence. In the Americas, indigenous groups like the Aztecs, Incas, and various Native American tribes also resisted European colonialism through armed struggle and cultural resistance.

Furthermore, people from non-European societies have also played a key role in shaping the global economic system, through trade, industrialization, and innovation. For instance, China and India were both centers of economic activity prior to the onset of European imperialism, and continued to play important roles in global trade throughout the colonial period. Additionally, many non-European societies have made significant contributions to fields such as medicine, mathematics, and philosophy.

In conclusion, people from non-European societies were not simply victims of European actions, but also active agents in the historical process. Their agency and resistance were key factors in shaping the course of history and in challenging the dominance of European colonialism and imperialism.

Download PDF