What historical context underlines the ideas expressed by Jules Ferry in his 1890 article?

The context of Jules Ferry's 1890 article is deeply rooted in the era of imperial expansion and colonization. During this time, European powers were actively seeking to expand their influence across the globe, establishing colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. Ferry argued that imperialism was not only a noble endeavor but also a necessary one for France to compete on the world stage. He emphasized that acquiring colonies was vital for national prestige, economic growth, and the dissemination of civilization.

Ferry's views reflect the belief among many European leaders that imperial expansion was a moral obligation and a means of ensuring national superiority. This perspective was prevalent during the late 19th century, when ideas of nationalism and racial superiority spurred countries to obtain colonies for both economic resources and strategic advantages. Thus, the emphasis in his article on imperialism reflects this historical context of vigorous competition among nations for territorial acquisition and resources during the Age of Empire.