Why did European nations engage in imperialism?

Explanation:

Five Motives for Imperialism. Various motives prompt empires to seek to expand their rule over other countries or territories. These include economic, exploratory, ethnocentric, political, and religious motives. ... Imperial powers often competed with each over for the best potential resources, markets, and trade.

In the Age of New Imperialism that began in the 1870s, European states established vast empires mainly in Africa, but also in Asia and the Middle East. ... Through the use of direct military force, economic spheres of influence, and annexation, European countries dominated the continents of Africa and Asia.

The Industrial Revolution, which took place mainly in Europe during the 18th-19th centuries, led to an increase in factory production in Europe. Businesses needed more raw materials to use to manufacture goods.

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