The primary ideology behind imperialism in the 19th century was driven by the desire for economic expansion, national prestige, and a belief in cultural superiority. European powers sought new markets, raw materials, and investment opportunities, which fueled competition among nations. This capitalism-driven ideology was often justified by the notion of the "civilizing mission," where Western nations believed it was their duty to "civilize" the so-called "less developed" societies. Ideas of racial superiority, mainly derived from Social Darwinism, further legitimized conquest and domination over foreign lands. Ultimately, this imperialist mindset significantly impacted global relations, leading to colonial exploitation and resistance movements worldwide.