IMPERIALISM. A term originally applied to the character and spirit of that form of gov ernment known as an empire (q.v.), and con noting absolute power vested in the hands of a single ruler. More recently the term has been generally used to describe the policy, pursued by various nations, of establishing 'world pow ers' through the extension of their rule over other and especially inferior races of mankind, and, sometimes, through the acquisition, on whatever motive, of new territory lying outside their 'natural' boundaries. The policy, when logically carried out, results in the establishment or maintenance of colonies or outlying depend encies. In Great Britain the term is sometimes applied to the doctrine which calls for the closer union, into a so-called imperial Federation, of the component parts of the British Empire. With reference to the questions of expansion of territory and extension of power, there has been much discussion in recent years, especially in Great Britain and the United States. In the
former country those favoring such a policy are popularly known as 'Jingoes,' and those op posing it as 'Little Englanders.' Each acquisi tion or attempted acquisition of new outlying territory by the United States has met with much opposition. and the opposition was particu larly pronounced at the close of the Spanish American War, when a group of citizens. who soon came to be known as 'Anti-lmperialists,' vigorously contended against the acquisition by this country of the Philippines and Porto Rico. By various political leaders and a large number of voters 'imperialism' was regarded as the 'paramount' issue in the Presidential campaign of 1900.