The Final Chapter: Europe's Global Domination

 

 Over the course of a century, Europe went from controlling just 35% of the world's land in 1800 to an astounding 84% by 1914. This dramatic shift is mind-boggling, and it all hinges on the continent's successful conquest of Africa. By the late 1800s, European powers had developed the technology and tactics to rapidly dominate vast new territories, aided by a sense of cooperation and a shared belief in their civilizational superiority.

The story begins with Spain and Portugal, the early pioneers of colonialism, but the real transformation happens when new technologies—like quinine to combat malaria—enable European powers to venture into previously impenetrable regions like Africa's interior. Here, the race to carve up Africa intensified, with the Scramble for Africa culminating in the Berlin Conference of 1884. European leaders gathered to divide the continent among themselves, ignoring the presence of African people, and establishing colonial dominance that would reshape the world.

Key to their success were advancements like steamships, railroads, and telegraphs, which allowed Europeans to transport goods and troops efficiently. These technologies, combined with ruthless military force and a deeply ingrained belief in their racial superiority, enabled the Europeans to conquer much of Africa and expand their empires across the globe.

At the height of European imperialism, Britain stood as the dominant global power, controlling vast territories and influencing the economic and political systems worldwide. But by 1914, Europe's technological prowess and imperial ambitions would soon lead to catastrophic wars among themselves, showcasing the destructive potential of the same forces that allowed them to conquer the world.

This final chapter in the story of Europe's rise to global dominance is not just about conquest—it's about how the ideas, technologies, and systems they created continue to shape the world today.