The International Problem of Raw Materials and Colonies

Abstract

It was once said, somewhat unpleasantly, of the English imperialism of the 19th century that it said ‘Christ’ and meant ‘cotton’. That is one of those unjust generalizations, which have so much contributed to the poisoning of the relationships between peoples and is especially ill-suited, when it is expressed with pharisaical self-righteousness. It refers to a period in which the great powers were scarcely in a position to reproach each other, and to a country, which unlike others can at least say for itself that it had shown itself to a high and exemplary degree, capable of self-criticism and reversal of policy.