The process of occupation and exploitation of the Asian continent by the European powers took place in the 19th century. However, this process did not happen in the same way within Asia, it varied from one region to another. Until the 19th century, Asians had almost no contact with European peoples, with the exception of merchant travelers.
The distinction in relation to the exploration process in the interior of the continent was given by the occupation of Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The insertion of a new culture from the European colonization generated direct reflections in the way of life of many civilizations.
The traditional cultivation of rice awakened in Europeans a great interest in the lands of Southeast Asia, where the planting of this crop had been developed for many centuries. Given the interest of Europeans in this region of Asia, there were many conflicts to determine ownership and exploitation.
With climatic conditions (hot and rainy) viable for the planting of tropical crops, the Europeans implemented the
During the colonization process of Asia, the Europeans faced resistance from some nations, among them the Indian and the Chinese. Both had a very organized social structure, in addition to a large army. Fidelity to religious principles and the moral conduct of the aforementioned civilizations further strengthened the resistance to the insertion of another culture.
Despite the efforts of these civilizations to protect their identity and their wealth, they were defeated by the Europeans. This is explained by the fact that European nations are experienced in combat and have a well-trained army. Thus, European nations dominated such territories and exploited them.
The continent was decolonized after World War II.
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By Eduardo de Freitas
Graduated in Geography
Brazil School Team
Asia - continents - geography - Brazil School
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
FREITAS, Eduardo de. "The colonization of Asia"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/geografia/a-colonizacao-asia.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.