why did France take up the idea of civilazing mission during mid 19th century
Answers
The French started their colonial conquests during the beginning of the 19th century. There were several reasons for powerful European nations to attempt civilisation of African and Asian countries.
The locals of the colonised lands were considered barbarians who had no appreciation for Europe.
It was impossible to communicate with them since the Europeans did not speak their native tongue.
By converting them or civilising them, they would be easily able to procure labour for the industries of Europe.
France took up the idea of a civilizing mission during to the mid-19th century.
This mission basically tried to formulate a rationale or defence against the practice of colonisation.
The western powers like France reasoned that it was their responsibility to bring western civilisation and culture to the so-called “uncivilised” indigenous people around the world.
Thus, France introduced the idea of civilizing mission to expand its colonies.