Mission Civilisatrice

"Mission Civilisatrice" refers to the idea that European colonial powers believed they had a duty to spread their civilization, culture, and values to the peoples they colonized. This concept was used to justify colonial expansion by suggesting they were helping to "civilize" or improve the moral and social development of other societies. In reality, it often masked ambitions of economic gain and political control, with culture and development used as justifications for dominance. The term highlights how imperial powers viewed their role as bringing order and progress, though it often disregarded local traditions and sovereignty.